OpenAI has broadened the accessibility of its popular ChatGPT with two new features aimed at making AI more user-friendly and accessible. In its “12 Days of Christmas” updates, OpenAI launched a free phone service for US users and integrated ChatGPT into WhatsApp for international users, significantly expanding the reach of its AI chatbot.
The new phone service, available to US-based users, allows them to call ChatGPT at 1-800-CHATGPT, offering up to 15 minutes of free call time per month. The service is powered by OpenAI’s Realtime API, providing a direct and convenient way for users to interact with AI. In addition, users outside the US can now message ChatGPT via WhatsApp using the number 1-800-242-8478, a feature integrated with GPT-4o mini and WhatsApp’s API.
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Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, described these features as an accessible entry point for those less familiar with AI technology. By leveraging WhatsApp’s two billion active users, OpenAI aims to connect with a global audience, ensuring the technology is accessible even for those who may not be as tech-savvy.
Both the phone service and WhatsApp integration are experimental features, distinct from the traditional web-based ChatGPT platform. While they are designed to be user-friendly, OpenAI encourages existing users seeking advanced features to continue using the main platform.
