What’s New: ChatGPT on WhatsApp
ChatGPT, OpenAI's advanced AI chatbot, is now available on WhatsApp. Users can begin chatting with the bot by adding 1 (800) CHAT-GPT—or 1 (800) 242-8478—to their contacts. Unlike other versions, this integration supports text-only communication, meaning advanced features like voice input or image-based queries are unavailable. The chatbot operates on OpenAI’s o1-mini model, ensuring efficient and intelligent responses.
OpenAI confirmed that the service is accessible in all regions where ChatGPT is offered, and users do not need an OpenAI account to use the chatbot on WhatsApp. However, OpenAI is exploring ways to authenticate existing accounts within WhatsApp, though no timeline has been announced.
A Growing Ecosystem
This move expands ChatGPT’s accessibility beyond the app and web interface. Meta, which owns WhatsApp, already offers its own AI chatbot on the platform. The addition of ChatGPT to WhatsApp increases competition in the messaging app’s AI space.
ChatGPT Hotline in the US
OpenAI is also launching a toll-free hotline for ChatGPT in the United States, using the same number: 1 (800) 242-8478.
Here’s what you need to know:
The hotline works on all phones, from smartphones to flip phones.
Users receive 15 minutes of free ChatGPT access. After that, logging into an OpenAI account grants additional usage time.
OpenAI’s Vision for Accessibility
Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to expanding ChatGPT’s reach. “We’re only just getting started on making ChatGPT more accessible to everyone,” he said during OpenAI’s "12 Days of OpenAI" live stream.
These innovations, including the WhatsApp integration and hotline, stem from a recent internal hack week. OpenAI has also recently made ChatGPT Search available to free-tier users and introduced its Sora video generation tool.
Why It Matters?
The rollout of ChatGPT on WhatsApp and the US hotline underlines OpenAI’s mission to make AI technology more widely available and user-friendly. By leveraging one of the world’s most popular messaging apps and providing alternative access points, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as a convenient tool for everyday use.
Commentaires