OpenAI has made ChatGPT accessible via phone and WhatsApp chat. As part of its virtual advent calendar “12 Days of OpenAI,” the company has been unveiling new features since December 5, 2024. Some of the highlights include the introduction of the new language model GPT-o1, the launch of the video AI Sora, and the activation of live video functionality.
On the ninth day of the planned twelve-event series, OpenAI announced that people can now reach ChatGPT through phone calls and WhatsApp chats. Initially, phone access is only available in the USA, but WhatsApp access is available globally. OpenAI has set up a dedicated number for this purpose: US users can dial 1-800-242-8478 to connect with ChatGPT, whether they use a smartphone, an old mobile phone, or a landline.
The aim is to make ChatGPT appealing to new user groups. OpenAI describes this as a “cost-effective way to try out the AI chatbot through familiar channels.” Each month, OpenAI offers all interested parties a free 15-minute quota. According to The Verge, this restriction applies to one phone number. Those who call from different numbers, such as using Google Voice numbers, could theoretically use the service indefinitely.
For users outside the USA, ChatGPT can be contacted via WhatsApp using the same number. To do this, the US number 1-800-242-8478 must simply be saved as a contact. Currently, users can only chat with the AI chatbot through this communication channel. However, OpenAI has announced that WhatsApp users will soon be able to link their ChatGPT accounts, enabling additional features like image recognition.
Currently, only a basic version of the AI chatbot is available via phone and WhatsApp. OpenAI advises users who want the full range of features, longer usage times, or personalization options to stick with their usual access methods via web or app.
It’s interesting how these new communication channels came about. According to OpenAI, the idea emerged just a few weeks ago, and the initial approaches were developed during an internal hackathon. OpenAI has also promised not to use the recorded phone calls for training its large language models, as reported by The Verge.
The introduction of ChatGPT via phone and WhatsApp is part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to expand the accessibility of its AI technologies. By offering the service through widely used communication methods, OpenAI aims to reach a broader audience and provide more people with the opportunity to interact with AI in a convenient and familiar way.
The move reflects a growing trend of integrating AI into everyday communication tools, making it easier for individuals to access and benefit from advanced technologies. As AI continues to evolve, such initiatives are likely to become more common, bridging the gap between technology and daily life.
Overall, OpenAI’s decision to make ChatGPT available through phone and WhatsApp represents a significant step in making AI more accessible and user-friendly. By leveraging popular communication platforms, OpenAI is opening up new possibilities for interaction and engagement with AI, paving the way for more widespread adoption and integration of AI technologies in various aspects of life.