SAN FRANCISCO: OpenAI has unveiled a new feature allowing users to access its popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, directly on WhatsApp. This integration eliminates the need for a separate app or account, making AI-powered assistance more accessible to a global audience.
The rollout is part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” series, a campaign featuring major updates and feature releases.
Users can start a conversation with ChatGPT on WhatsApp by sending a message to 1-800-CHATGPT or 1-800-242-8478. Alternatively, they can scan a QR code available on OpenAI’s support page.
You can now talk to ChatGPT by calling 1-800-ChatGPT (1-800-242-8478) in the U.S. or by sending a WhatsApp message to the same number—available everywhere ChatGPT is. pic.twitter.com/R0XOPut7Qw
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) December 18, 2024
In the United States and Canada, users can also call the same number to interact with ChatGPT using Advanced Voice Mode, enabling seamless, natural language conversations.
The service leverages OpenAI’s GPT-4o-mini model, the same engine powering the free ChatGPT app. Users can engage ChatGPT for creative writing support, brainstorming, travel and recipe recommendations, or general conversation.
To send a message on WhatsApp, just type in 1-800-242-8478 as the recipient. pic.twitter.com/tzFTd7FzUj
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) December 18, 2024
OpenAI describes the release as experimental, with features subject to rate limits and availability based on demand.
Global Accessibility
This WhatsApp integration provides a significant advantage for users in regions with limited access to high-speed internet. By offering text-based interaction on WhatsApp, OpenAI ensures accessibility even in low-data environments.
In a statement, OpenAI said, “People in areas with limited data can now access AI-powered assistance without requiring the web-heavy infrastructure of the ChatGPT app.”
Although the integration is free to use, OpenAI has implemented a daily usage limit. The company has assures users that limits may be adjusted based on system capacity. Notifications will be sent as users approach their daily limits.
Currently, the WhatsApp-based ChatGPT supports text conversations only. However, OpenAI is exploring an account login option to deliver more personalized responses.
Advanced Features for Users
In the United States, OpenAI has introduced a voice call feature through the same 1-800-CHATGPT number. Powered by OpenAI’s Realtime API, this feature allows users to hold dynamic, conversational interactions with the AI.
Competing with Meta AI
With WhatsApp’s vast user base of over 2.7 billion active users globally, OpenAI’s move comes as a direct challenge to Meta’s AI tools integrated into WhatsApp. The platform’s popularity in regions with inconsistent internet connectivity makes it an ideal medium for AI expansion.
The announcement, the tenth in OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” series, demonstrates the company’s commitment to improving accessibility and functionality for its AI tools.
It follows the release of features such as Sora and highlights OpenAI’s strategy to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
