San Francisco, California – OpenAI has introduced an enhanced voice mode for audio conversations with ChatGPT, offering a more natural and fluid chat experience for its premium users. This new feature allows for smoother interactions and quicker responses, making the conversations feel more realistic and engaging. The company announced the release of this advanced voice capability, which is not yet available in certain European countries, on Tuesday.
Since its initial launch in late 2022, ChatGPT has gained popularity with over 200 million weekly active users, making it a key player in the generative AI chatbot market. OpenAI’s co-founder and CEO, Sam Altman, expressed excitement about the new voice mode, which offers users the ability to choose from nine different voices and customize their chat experience through the app’s settings.
The rollout of the advanced voice feature comes after OpenAI received legal challenges regarding a voice similar to Scarlett Johansson’s in the movie “Her.” Following these claims, OpenAI temporarily paused using the voice and introduced other voice options for users to interact with. The company has since made improvements to the voice mode, including better accents in foreign languages and increased conversation speed.
To access the advanced voice mode, users must have a subscription to OpenAI’s Plus, Team, or Enterprise plans, with the most affordable option starting at $20 per month. The new feature allows users to engage in various activities with ChatGPT, such as listening to bedtime stories, practicing foreign languages, or preparing for job interviews. However, there is a time limit imposed on the advanced voice mode, even for paying subscribers.
As the competition in the AI chatbot market heats up, with Google and Meta introducing their own voice features, OpenAI continues to innovate and improve its offerings to meet the growing demands of its users. With the launch of the advanced voice mode, ChatGPT aims to provide a more immersive and personalized chat experience for its premium users, setting itself apart in the rapidly evolving AI technology landscape.