“Silicon Valley has a variety of coffee shops known for their rich flavors, such as Blue Bottle, Verve Coffee, and Peet’s Coffee. Are you looking for a specific type of coffee shop?” Upon calling ‘1-800-242-8478’ on the 18th (local time) and asking for coffee shop recommendations in Silicon Valley, this response was given. When the caller mentioned a preference for dark roast coffee, the AI recommended coffee shops based on ratings. The interaction started with a brief introduction to the terms of service, followed by, “Hello, this is ChatGPT. How may I assist you?” Although the experience might seem like conversing with a polite customer service representative, the difference is that the representative is an AI.
OpenAI launched a phone service for ChatGPT on this day. Even with a regular landline, users can call the ChatGPT number, and it will respond to their voice queries using its ‘Advanced Voice’ feature. It also translates certain sentences into other languages. The service is available to U.S. users with a 15-minute free call allowance.
Additionally, ChatGPT became accessible through WhatsApp, which has 2 billion monthly active users. By registering the ChatGPT number on WhatsApp, users can start chatting with the AI, similar to how they would use the ChatGPT app. OpenAI plans to add features like image analysis and web search to go beyond basic Q&A interactions.
This service expansion aims to eliminate gaps in ChatGPT’s availability. While the phone service targets individuals without smartphones, the WhatsApp integration is for people without the ChatGPT app, aiming to allow anyone to use ChatGPT anywhere. Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, stated, “Today we brought ChatGPT to your phone as the next step,” adding, “We’re just beginning our journey to make ChatGPT more accessible.”
Since the 5th, OpenAI has been unveiling new features under the theme ‘OpenAI’s 12 Days,’ announcing a new feature every weekday for 12 days. This includes launching the expensive chatbot service ‘ChatGPT Pro’ for $200 per month, collaboration tools like Canvas, and video and screen sharing features. They also made the search engine ChatGPT Search, officially launched in October, available to all users for free.
These 12-day announcements focus on broadening the user base of ChatGPT. Originally aimed at paid users, the services are now available to more people, maximizing convenience by eliminating the need for separate sign-ups. With competitors such as Google, Meta, and Anthropic rapidly progressing, OpenAI aims to retain its foothold in the generative AI market.
OpenAI has set a goal to build Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) through ChatGPT. To achieve this, the service must be for ‘everyone.’ Weil, the CPO, emphasized, “OpenAI’s goal is to create AGI that benefits all of humanity,” and that increasing accessibility is part of this vision.