Chat with ChatGPT on WhatsApp or Call it on Your Phone - AI Goes Retro for Wider Reach

2024-12-18

OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” surprised everyone with its tenth gift – making the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT accessible through everyone’s favorite messaging app, WhatsApp, and even good old-fashioned phone calls!

This move broadens ChatGPT’s reach significantly, especially for those without a smartphone or reliable internet connection. Let’s explore how to chat with ChatGPT on these new platforms and what you can expect from the experience.

ChatGPT on WhatsApp

Simply add the number 1-800-242-8478 (1-800-CHATGPT) to your WhatsApp contacts and start chatting! It’s just like interacting with any other WhatsApp chatbot. However, keep in mind that this is the free tier version of ChatGPT, so some features like web searches and image analysis are unavailable. There’s also a daily message limit, though you’ll receive a warning before reaching it.

ChatGPT by Phone

For an audio experience, dial 1-800-CHATGPT and a friendly, human-like voice will answer your questions. Similar to ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode, you can ask for translations, recommendations, or simply have a conversation. Currently, phone calls are limited to 15 minutes per month and only available in the US.

What Undercode Says:

OpenAI’s decision to make ChatGPT available through phone calls signifies a fascinating shift. This “retro” approach caters to those who might not have access to the latest technology, mirroring Google’s move with a phone number for their Assistant.

It also highlights the growing trend of integrating AI into diverse communication channels. Remember how Apple and OpenAI considered adding ChatGPT capabilities to Siri? This push for wider accessibility through familiar platforms suggests a future where AI seamlessly blends into our everyday interactions.

Limitations to Consider

While this is a positive step towards inclusivity, there are limitations to acknowledge. The daily message limit on WhatsApp might be frustrating for some users. The phone call feature’s current US restriction excludes international audiences. Hopefully, OpenAI will address these limitations in the future.

Overall, this “retro” gift from OpenAI demonstrates a commitment to making AI accessible for everyone. It’s a glimpse into a future where AI isn’t just for tech-savvy individuals but can enhance communication for a wider audience. With continued development, we might see AI seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, making phone calls and messaging even more interactive and informative.