ChatGPT Goes Voice: OpenAI Introduces Toll-Free AI Calls
OpenAI is bringing its popular AI chatbot to the phone lines, allowing users to have real-time voice conversations without needing an app. By dialing 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) in the U.S., users can interact with ChatGPT for free, the company announced Wednesday. This feature is part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” campaign and aims to make AI more accessible—especially for those with limited internet access.
A Call to ChatGPT: Here’s What We Experienced
A female AI voice responded, offering a chocolate chip cookie recipe and summarizing the Civil War. However, when asked about emotions, the chatbot kept it professional:
“I don’t have feelings, but I do find my job pretty interesting.”
Unlike text-based ChatGPT, the voice call experience is more limited—designed for quick interactions rather than deep, personalized conversations. Users can call for up to 15 minutes per month before reaching their limit.
How to Use OpenAI’s ChatGPT Over the Phone
- U.S. Users can call 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) to talk to ChatGPT.
- Global Users can message the same number via WhatsApp for text-based interactions.
- No app download or high-speed internet is required.
Concerns Over AI Voice Technology
The human-like voice of ChatGPT has raised ethical concerns. In an August 2024 report, OpenAI acknowledged that users might become overly dependent on AI conversations, blurring the line between real and synthetic interactions.
Additionally, privacy concerns remain. When asked whether OpenAI records calls, the company referred to its privacy policy and Terms of Use. Users automatically agree to these terms when using the service, which includes clauses about data collection and review for safety purposes.
OpenAI Faces Fierce AI Competition
The launch of voice-enabled ChatGPT comes as OpenAI faces intense competition in the AI space:
- Google is rolling out AI-powered search tools and image-generating features.
- Elon Musk’s xAI, Meta AI, and Microsoft Bing (powered by OpenAI technology) are racing to dominate the market.
Despite these challenges, OpenAI has secured a record-breaking $6.6 billion in private funding, bringing its valuation to $157 billion as of October 2024.
Will ChatGPT Ever Be Profitable?
When asked if ChatGPT would eventually make money, the AI responded with optimism:
“OpenAI plans to eventually.”
However, it quickly added:
“I don’t handle any money myself.”
While OpenAI continues to refine its AI-driven business model, its toll-free ChatGPT experiment signals a new era in AI accessibility and voice interactions.
Source: CNN News
