OpenAI has expanded access to its widely-used AI chatbot, ChatGPT, with two new features: global integration with WhatsApp and a free phone service for users in the United States.
As part of its “12 Days of Christmas” updates, U.S-based users can now call ChatGPT at 1-800-CHATGPT, with up to 15 minutes of free call time per month per phone number. International users can interact with ChatGPT through WhatsApp by messaging 1-800-242-8478.
Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, described the new features as a “stepping stone for AI newcomers,” emphasizing their role in making AI technology more accessible and user-friendly during a livestream announcement.
The phone service utilizes OpenAI’s Realtime API, while the WhatsApp integration operates on GPT-4o mini, linked with the WhatsApp API. Both features aim to cater to less tech-savvy users by simplifying access to AI capabilities.
OpenAI clarified that these experimental tools differ from its primary web-based platform. Advanced users looking for more customization options and higher usage limits are encouraged to continue using the main ChatGPT platform.
With over two billion active users on WhatsApp, the global integration leverages the platform’s massive reach, positioning ChatGPT as a familiar and accessible tool for diverse audiences. OpenAI also addressed privacy concerns, assuring users that data from these interactions will not be used to train its AI models, distinguishing the initiative from similar projects like Google’s GOOG-411.
The phone service is available now to U.S. users, while WhatsApp messaging is accessible worldwide. OpenAI is closely monitoring user feedback to refine and expand these offerings.
