ChatGPT's big, free update with GPT-4o is rolling out now – here's what you need to know
ChatGPT has just received one of its most significant updates to date, introducing a range of new features powered by the latest GPT-4o model. These updates were announced at its 'Spring Update' event.
New Multi-Modal Version
The latest iteration, GPT-4o, is a multi-modal version of ChatGPT that can now "reason across audio, vision, and text in real time," as described by the company. This update is currently rolling out to all users, including free accounts.
While ChatGPT Plus users already have access to a limited version of GPT-4o, featuring text and image capabilities, voice and video functionalities are scheduled for a later release. To access the GPT-4o model, users can log into their accounts via a web browser and navigate to the drop-down menu in the top left-hand corner. If the update is available, the default model should now be GPT-4o, labeled as OpenAI's "newest and most advanced model."
Platform Availability
While web users can already benefit from GPT-4o, the rollout on ChatGPT apps for iOS, Android, and Mac is progressing at a slower pace.
As of now, GPT-4o is not yet accessible on iOS or Android, and the new Mac app is still in the process of being released. OpenAI plans to make the macOS app available to Plus users first before expanding its availability in the coming weeks. Additionally, a Windows version is expected later this year.
Exciting Features to Anticipate
Some of the most impressive features showcased in OpenAI's GPT-4o demo include real-time conversational speech and vision-based capabilities that enable the model to 'see' and engage in dialogue simultaneously.
Developers can now access GPT-4o in the API as a text and vision model. However, the rollout of voice functionalities will initially be limited to ChatGPT Plus users before expanding to a broader audience.
Future Developments
While certain features of GPT-4o are currently exclusive to testers and developers among ChatGPT's paid users, OpenAI plans to gradually introduce these capabilities to a wider user base.
The complexity of the technology behind GPT-4o's demos suggests that a broad rollout may require additional time and resources.
Despite the wait for full access to GPT-4o's advanced functionalities, the promise of availability for all users – free and paid – is indeed encouraging. Stay tuned for further updates as OpenAI continues to enhance the ChatGPT experience with the latest GPT-4o model.
