In the midst of changes at OpenAI following the departure of CEO Sam Altman, there’s some good news for ChatGPT users.
Now, even those who use the free version can enjoy the new voice chat feature. Previously, this feature was only available to users with a paid subscription.
Now, free users can talk directly to the AI assistant and have real-time conversations.
ChatGPT Voice Chat is Now Free for Everyone
The most recent update of ChatGPT has brought voice chat to free users. This feature is accessible on the official ChatGPT app for Android and iOS.
It lets users engage in one-on-one conversations with the AI bot, similar to having a conversation over the phone.
To use this feature, users simply need to tap on the headphone icon in the ChatGPT app. There are five different voices to choose from for the app’s responses.
After selecting a voice, ChatGPT will start conversing in a manner that resembles a real human interaction.
Company Announcement via Tweet
The company has also shared this information through a tweet, including a voice sample that sounds remarkably realistic.
Compared to Google Assistant and Apple Siri, ChatGPT’s tone and voice modulation are considered better and more authentic.
Feature Exclusive to Android and iOS Apps
After finishing a voice chat, users can return to the regular text-based chat version of ChatGPT.
It’s important to note that voice chat is currently only available on the Android and iOS apps, not on the website.
Voice chat was initially launched by ChatGPT in September 2023 but was restricted to ChatGPT Plus customers.
This recent development is excellent news for free users as OpenAI has removed the paywall for this feature.
Potential Challenges Due to Internal Issues
However, users may encounter difficulties accessing this feature as OpenAI is undergoing significant internal challenges.
The company reports that more than 90% of its employees have threatened to resign following the dismissal of its founder and CEO, Sam Altman.
Discussions are ongoing to address the situation, and Microsoft has become involved.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced the hiring of Sam Altman and is also offering jobs to OpenAI employees considering leaving the company.
