OpenAI has unveiled a new feature, 1-800-CHATGPT, enabling users in the United States to access its chatbot via phone or WhatsApp. By dialing 1-800-242-8478, users can engage with ChatGPT, with OpenAI promising a simple and low-cost way to try out the AI. OpenAI’s new feature ensures that ChatGPT is available for phone calls and texts to make AI more accessible.
Callers can use the service for up to 15 minutes per month at no cost. This move aims to make AI more accessible to those unfamiliar with OpenAI’s existing platforms. The service offers a streamlined experience compared to the web-based version of ChatGPT.
On WhatsApp, users can interact with ChatGPT as a business account. Currently, only text-based communication is supported, and voice calls are not available. OpenAI is working on linking WhatsApp messages with ChatGPT credentials for personalized responses. Additionally, a daily usage limit has been introduced, although the exact cap remains undisclosed.
For users in the United States, ChatGPT is available for phone calls and texts through the 1-800-CHATGPT service. OpenAI has clarified that interactions made through 1-800-CHATGPT will not be used to train the AI model. This assurance is expected to address concerns about privacy and data security.
Competition in the AI Space
The release comes amid a 12-day series of updates from OpenAI, which recently announced “Sora,” its AI-driven video generation tool. The company has also launched a search feature for ChatGPT, positioning it as a direct competitor to Google and Microsoft Bing.
OpenAI’s growth strategy includes heavy investment in advertising, marked by the recent hiring of its first chief marketing officer. The company is competing with other major players in the generative AI market, including Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon.
OpenAI raised its valuation to $157 billion after closing a funding round in October. It also secured a $4 billion credit line, boosting liquidity to over $10 billion. The company continues to innovate rapidly, with the 1-800-CHATGPT tool reportedly developed within a few weeks.
A Familiar Approach to AI
The phone-based AI service is seen as a nostalgic nod to Google’s discontinued GOOG-411, a voice-based directory assistance service from 2007. Unlike its predecessor, OpenAI’s tool emphasizes accessibility and user experience, without relying on data collection for model improvement.
OpenAI’s latest offering underscores its commitment to making AI accessible to a broader audience while expanding its competitive edge in the market.
Limited Reach
Through WhatsApp integration, ChatGPT is available for phone calls and texts, offering a familiar way to interact with AI. The service makes AI accessible to a new audience, especially those without access to computers or smartphones capable of running apps. This is a significant step toward bridging the digital divide. However, the exclusivity of this feature to the U.S. limits its global impact. Expanding to other countries could democratize AI access, but it also requires addressing variations in technological infrastructure and user behavior worldwide.
Moreover, the free 15-minute monthly limit is a good way to let users try the service but might fall short for those who want meaningful engagement with AI. While OpenAI’s reassurance that user data won’t train the model alleviates privacy concerns, some might hesitate to trust this claim, especially given past controversies surrounding AI and data usage.
Sustainability Concerns
The phone-based model is innovative, but its sustainability remains unclear. Managing call volumes, ensuring system stability, and scaling the service to meet user demand could be challenging. The addition of daily limits for WhatsApp usage also signals resource constraints.
Additionally, the lack of voice interaction on WhatsApp seems like a missed opportunity. Voice features could benefit those with literacy challenges or limited typing ability, making the tool even more inclusive.
Also Read: Stop OpenAI from Becoming For-Profit: Meta Sends Letter To California Attorney General.
