OpenAI has introduced a new way to interact with ChatGPT, making it accessible via phone calls and WhatsApp messaging. Users in the U.S. and Canada can now call 1-800-ChatGPT (1-800-242-8478) to speak with the AI chatbot, while WhatsApp users globally can send text messages to the same number. This feature is part of OpenAI's "12 Days of OpenAI" campaign and aims to make ChatGPT more accessible, especially for those without high-speed internet or advanced devices.
The phone service offers 15 minutes of free voice interaction per month for U.S. users, with potential adjustments based on demand. While the voice feature supports natural conversations, it doesn't include advanced personalization available in the ChatGPT app. WhatsApp messaging is limited to text-based interactions and lacks features like image sharing or account-linked personalization. OpenAI emphasizes that this is an experimental rollout, and availability or limits may change over time.
This initiative aligns with OpenAI’s mission to broaden access to AI technology while addressing practical constraints like limited internet access. The company also sees this as a step toward generating additional revenue to support its operations.
To use these features:
- Phone Calls: Dial 1-800-CHATGPT from a U.S. or Canadian phone number.
- WhatsApp Messaging: Add 1-800-242-8478 as a contact and start a chat on WhatsApp.
This development complements OpenAI's recent updates, including advanced voice capabilities in its app and integration with platforms like Siri. By leveraging widely used communication tools such as WhatsApp, ChatGPT is extending its reach to new audiences while maintaining user-friendly access to its AI technology.