OpenAI is making strides toward transforming ChatGPT into an “everything app” by enabling users to make phone calls to it and message it on WhatsApp.
Starting today, users can call ChatGPT or send it messages on WhatsApp. By adding the number 1-800-ChatGPT to your contacts, you can initiate a phone call or chat with it directly. During a live demo, OpenAI demonstrated how users on a road trip could call ChatGPT to inquire about landmarks such as the “Flintstone House.”
While the demo was conducted using an iPhone, OpenAI also showcased how calls could be made with older devices like flip phones and even rotary phones, with ChatGPT reliably answering questions. U.S.-based users with a phone plan will receive 15 minutes of free calling to ChatGPT.
An OpenAI spokesperson clarified that voice call and WhatsApp message data will not be utilized for model training.
Though ChatGPT phone calls weren’t anticipated in OpenAI’s recent feature rollouts, they align with the company’s broader strategy to integrate its technology into everyday life. “OpenAI’s mission is to ensure artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity, which includes making it widely accessible,” said Chief Product Officer Kevin Weil during the livestream.
Recently, OpenAI introduced features like Canvas for drafting and refining text or code, Projects for organizing conversations, and full access to its ChatGPT search engine. While some updates target power users, these new tools aim to attract a more casual, less tech-savvy audience, broadening the platform’s appeal.
Looking ahead, OpenAI is expected to release agentic tools capable of web browsing, automated coding, and even initiating conversations. This potential was hinted at through a feature called “Tasks,” reportedly discovered by engineer Tibor Blaho and TestingCatalog, which automates tasks such as sending news updates, similar to Google Alerts.
On WhatsApp, ChatGPT functions as a typical chatbot, offering responses to queries, such as providing a pesto recipe. Currently, this interaction is text-based, but image support is expected to be introduced soon.
What is 1-800-ChatGPT?
1-800-ChatGPT is a new experimental feature designed to expand access to ChatGPT. You can now interact with ChatGPT via phone calls or WhatsApp messages at 1-800-ChatGPT, and no account is required.
Please note that ChatGPT will never initiate a call or start a chat with you on WhatsApp. To begin a conversation, you can call 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) using a U.S. or Canada number, or message 1-800-242-8478 on WhatsApp from supported countries. Standard carrier fees may apply.
FAQ’s
What is 1-800-ChatGPT?
1-800-ChatGPT is an experimental feature that allows users to access ChatGPT via phone calls or WhatsApp messages. This initiative is designed to make ChatGPT more widely accessible without the need for an account.
How can I use 1-800-ChatGPT?
To use this service, add 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) to your contacts. You can:
Call: Dial the number from a U.S. or Canada phone.
Message: Send a message to the number on WhatsApp from supported countries.
Standard carrier fees may apply for both calls and messages.
Does ChatGPT initiate calls or messages?
No, ChatGPT will never start a call or initiate a chat with you. You must start the conversation by calling or messaging 1-800-ChatGPT.
Can I use 1-800-ChatGPT with any device?
Yes! While the demo showcased its functionality on an iPhone, ChatGPT can also be accessed using older devices like flip phones or even rotary phones for calls. WhatsApp messaging works on any device that supports the app.
Is there a cost for calling ChatGPT?
U.S.-based users with a phone plan get 15 minutes of free calling to ChatGPT. After that, or in unsupported regions, standard carrier fees may apply.
Will my data from calls or messages be used for training ChatGPT?
No, OpenAI has confirmed that data from voice calls and WhatsApp messages will not be used for model training.
What can I do with ChatGPT on WhatsApp?
ChatGPT can answer questions, provide recipes, offer general information, and more. For example, you can ask for a pesto recipe or learn about nearby landmarks. Currently, interactions are text-based, but image support will be added soon.
Conclusion
The introduction of 1-800-ChatGPT marks a significant step in OpenAI’s mission to make ChatGPT more accessible and seamlessly integrated into daily life. By enabling phone calls and WhatsApp messaging, OpenAI is expanding the reach of its AI technology to cater to a broader audience, including those who may not typically interact with advanced AI tools. With ongoing updates and upcoming features like image support, automated tasks, and agentic tools, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as a versatile and user-friendly assistant for everyday use. This innovation reaffirms OpenAI’s commitment to making artificial general intelligence both accessible and beneficial to all.
