ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now OpenAI has announced that users in the United States and Canada can now access ChatGPT on flip phones and landline phones by dialing 1-800-CHATGPT, allowing up to 15 minutes of conversation per month without requiring an account or subscription. This new feature makes interacting with ChatGPT more accessible, enabling natural voice exchanges for tasks like answering personal queries and learning new phrases in different languages.

For users outside these regions, ChatGPT is now available on WhatsApp by texting the number 1-800-242-8478. While the WhatsApp integration supports general queries like the dedicated app, advanced features such as image generation or voice interactions still require access through the web or the official ChatGPT app.

OpenAI has also confirmed plans to enhance the WhatsApp service soon, including account authentication and new capabilities like image-based chatting and web search.

ChatGPT, the AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, has become more accessible than ever with new ways to interact. Users can now connect with ChatGPT via a dedicated phone number (1-800-CHATGPT or 1-800-242-8478) and WhatsApp, offering a familiar and straightforward experience for those less accustomed to AI platforms.

How the New Features Work

• Voice Calling: U.S. users can call 1-800-CHATGPT for up to 15 minutes of free usage per month. This experimental feature works even on flip phones and landlines. OpenAI has noted that availability and limits may evolve based on user demand.
• WhatsApp Integration: Users worldwide can interact with ChatGPT by messaging 1-800-242-8478 on WhatsApp. This feature is available wherever ChatGPT is supported and provides a convenient way to access the chatbot without requiring an OpenAI account.

Development and Technology

OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, Kevin Weil, shared that the phone line feature was developed in just a few weeks using the company’s Realtime API. Meanwhile, the WhatsApp integration is powered by GPT-4o mini through the WhatsApp API.

Features and Accessibility

These updates are part of OpenAI’s effort to make ChatGPT easy to use for everyone, especially those new to AI or who prefer traditional communication methods. However, users seeking advanced features, personalization, and higher usage limits are encouraged to use their ChatGPT accounts via standard platforms.

OpenAI’s “Ship-mas” Event

These developments follow OpenAI’s 12-day “ship-mas” release event, which included several announcements and new features. Among them is the launch of Sora, an AI video generation tool that expands the capabilities of ChatGPT, further solidifying its versatility and appeal.

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now  OpenAI has introduced an experimental service called 1-800-ChatGPT, bringing its AI chatbot to WhatsApp and making it more accessible to a broader audience. This initiative eliminates the need for a dedicated app or account. Notably, this launch positions ChatGPT as an alternative to Meta AI, which is already available on WhatsApp.

How It Works:

• US and Canada: Users can call 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) for voice-based interactions, with a 15-minute free usage cap per month.
• WhatsApp Users Worldwide: Text-based conversations are available by messaging the same number, though daily usage limits apply. Notifications will inform users when they are nearing their limits.

In India, Moneycontrol found that while adding ChatGPT through the phone number wasn’t possible, users could access it by scanning a QR code on OpenAI’s support page. However, users must initiate interactions, as ChatGPT won’t send messages unprompted.

Features and Limitations:

• Currently, ChatGPT on WhatsApp supports only text messaging.
• Advanced features like account login, web searches, image-based chats, memory personalization, and custom instructions are not yet available.
• The service doesn’t support group chats and is limited to one-on-one conversations.
• ChatGPT’s knowledge base on WhatsApp is current only up to October 2023, restricting its ability to address recent events.

Despite these limitations, the integration broadens ChatGPT’s reach, offering WhatsApp users a practical alternative to Meta AI.

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now  OpenAI is expanding the reach of ChatGPT by introducing it on WhatsApp and regular phone calls. Users in the US and Canada can now access ChatGPT for free by calling the toll-free number 1-800-242-8478, though calls are limited to 15 minutes per month. This service doesn’t require an account, but OpenAI is exploring ways to integrate ChatGPT accounts for WhatsApp users to enable chat history access.

How to Access ChatGPT on WhatsApp

Users worldwide, including in India, can activate the chatbot on WhatsApp by messaging the same number. While the WhatsApp integration is accessible in all supported regions, it has a daily limit on messages, with notifications alerting users as they approach their usage cap. Notably, ChatGPT will never initiate conversations or calls on WhatsApp.

Current Limitations

The WhatsApp chatbot supports only text-based interactions for now. Advanced features such as ChatGPT Search, image-based chats, and memory logs are not yet available but are expected to roll out in the future. Additionally, ChatGPT cannot be added to group chats on WhatsApp.

Broader Expansion

This launch is part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to increase ChatGPT’s accessibility, following its integration with Apple devices through iOS 18.2. OpenAI has also introduced Sora AI, a video generation tool for ChatGPT Plus subscribers, and a new Pro tier priced at $200 per month, offering enhanced access and higher limits.

This initiative underscores OpenAI’s commitment to reaching a wider audience, which aligns with its efforts to grow ChatGPT’s user base and boost its valuation.

OpenAI has rolled out significant updates to ChatGPT, making it even more accessible and versatile. Users can now interact with ChatGPT through WhatsApp or a toll-free phone line, while a new Maps feature in the mobile app enhances its functionality for everyday use.

ChatGPT on WhatsApp and Phone Lines

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now ChatGPT is now available globally on WhatsApp. Users can simply save the number 1-800-242-8478 to their contacts and start chatting without the need for an OpenAI account. For users in the US, OpenAI offers an additional voice-based interaction feature. By calling 1-800-CHATGPT, users can engage in real-time conversations with the AI through Advanced Voice Mode. Each call includes 15 minutes of free usage, making it a convenient option for quick help or information.

Features and Use Cases

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now ChatGPT’s messaging and voice features are designed for various tasks, including language translation, topic explanations, and providing directions. These updates align with OpenAI’s goal of making AI accessible and practical for everyday use.

Maps Feature in the ChatGPT App

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now The ChatGPT mobile app now includes a Maps feature, enabling users to search for local businesses, restaurants, and attractions directly within the app. With real-time information, this addition offers a seamless way to explore local options or plan outings, blending conversational AI with useful, location-based insights.

Aiming for AI Accessibility

ChatGPT: 10 Things You Didn’t Know It Could Do Now These updates demonstrate OpenAI’s commitment to expanding the reach and utility of ChatGPT. By simplifying access and adding practical tools like Maps, OpenAI continues to position itself as a leading player in the AI space, competing with tech giants like Google, Meta, and Amazon-backed Anthropic.

By integrating these new features, ChatGPT evolves into an indispensable tool for a growing global audience, bridging the gap between conversational AI and everyday needs.