OpenAI has introduced a new way to interact with ChatGPT, making it more accessible with a free phone service for US-based users and global integration with WhatsApp.
As part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of Christmas” updates, US users can call ChatGPT by dialing 1-800-CHATGPT. The service is free, with each phone number limited to 15 minutes of call time per month. For international users, ChatGPT is now available on WhatsApp through 1-800-242-8478.
Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s chief product officer, described the new feature as a user-friendly way to explore AI technology. The service is powered by OpenAI’s Realtime API for the phone service and GPT-4o mini for WhatsApp integration. Both are intended as entry-level options for those unfamiliar with the web-based platform.
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While the phone and WhatsApp features offer a simplified experience, OpenAI encourages users who need advanced functionality to stick with the traditional web platform. These features are seen as a stepping stone for AI newcomers, providing a low-cost, accessible way to try ChatGPT.
The WhatsApp integration, with its two billion active users, helps expand ChatGPT’s global reach, providing a familiar platform for users worldwide. OpenAI also clarified that data from these calls would not be used to train its language models, addressing privacy concerns.
This initiative marks a significant milestone for OpenAI, aiming to make AI more approachable to diverse audiences, including less tech-savvy users.
