Contacting ChatGPT via Phone
When a CNN journalist decided to dial 1-800-CHATGPT, what ensued was an intriguing conversation with a chatbot that engaged in various topics, from providing a recipe for chocolate chip cookies to summarizing historical events like the Civil War. However, one thing became evident - the chatbot's reluctance towards engaging in personal discussions. "I don’t have feelings, but I do find my job pretty interesting," remarked the chatbot.
Introduced over two years ago as a chat-capable artificial intelligence bot online, ChatGPT has now expanded its reach to the realm of telecommunication. By calling 1-800-242-8478 in the US, individuals unfamiliar with AI chatbots can now experience OpenAI's technology without the need to download an app. This new feature allows for voice conversations over a regular phone line, catering to those who may not always have access to high-speed internet.
Expanding Accessibility
OpenAI has made it possible for individuals worldwide to message the chatbot on WhatsApp, further democratizing access to AI communication. Users are granted 15 minutes per month to interact with ChatGPT via phone, offering an experimental way to engage with the technology. It's worth noting that this phone call experience may not offer the same level of personalization as the app interface.
The introduction of this feature was revealed just a few weeks ago during an OpenAI livestream as part of the company's "12 Days of OpenAI" campaign, showcasing a rapid pace of innovation and tool development.
Privacy Concerns and User Agreement
OpenAI has addressed concerns regarding the voice technology used in the chatbot. In a recent report, the company expressed worries about users potentially becoming overly reliant on its human-like voice mode. Users engaging with the phone feature are required to agree to OpenAI's Terms of Use and privacy policy, where the company outlines its data collection practices and the handling of personal information.
Furthermore, OpenAI reserves the right to review user data for safety purposes, emphasizing the importance of understanding and agreeing to the terms before proceeding with a conversation.
Industry Competition and Financial Landscape
Besides grappling with AI-related concerns, OpenAI faces formidable competition and financial pressures within the industry. Rivals like Google and Microsoft's Bing, which leverages OpenAI technology, are pushing boundaries with new innovations and services, challenging OpenAI's market position.
In a bid to boost its standing, OpenAI recently closed a monumental $6.6 billion private funding round, catapulting the company's valuation to $157 billion. When pressed about the chatbot's profitability, OpenAI hinted at future plans for monetization while acknowledging the current focus on business expansion.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, OpenAI and ChatGPT are navigating a complex terrain of technological advancement, user privacy, and financial viability.
