OpenAI has launched its advanced voice mode for ChatGPT, rolling out the feature to a limited number of ChatGPT Plus subscribers. Initially demonstrated at the GPT-4o launch event in May, the voice mode faced delays due to safety concerns but is now gradually becoming available to more users.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
OpenAI’s new voice mode is designed to facilitate more natural and interactive conversations with ChatGPT. The feature allows users to speak to ChatGPT as they would in a real conversation, and the AI responds in real-time, capable of handling interruptions and adjusting its responses based on user emotions.
At the GPT-4o launch event, OpenAI showcased this feature, demonstrating how it could respond to various prompts fluidly. However, the rollout was delayed after concerns were raised about the AI’s voice closely resembling Scarlett Johansson’s from the movie “Her.” Johansson’s concerns about unauthorized use of her voice led OpenAI to pause the launch to address these issues comprehensively.
To resolve these concerns, OpenAI ensured that the new voice mode would only use voices created by voice actors. The company implemented filters to prevent the AI from generating copyrighted audio content or impersonating real individuals, including public figures. This careful attention to ethical considerations underscores OpenAI’s commitment to safety and respect for intellectual property.
The new voice mode is now being gradually introduced to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, with plans to extend access to all subscribers by the fall. This phased rollout allows OpenAI to monitor the feature’s use and refine it based on user feedback, ensuring a high-quality experience for all users. During the delay, OpenAI worked on enhancing the model’s ability to detect and refuse inappropriate content. The company conducted extensive testing with over 100 external red teamers, ensuring the system’s robustness across 45 languages. This rigorous testing phase was crucial to addressing safety concerns and ensuring the reliability of the advanced voice mode.
The voice mode’s capabilities were further demonstrated during OpenAI’s event, where employees could interact with ChatGPT by asking it to tell stories in different ways. The AI responded smoothly to interruptions, showcasing its advanced conversational abilities. This feature is expected to transform how users interact with AI, making conversations with ChatGPT feel more human-like and intuitive.
TF Summary: What’s Next
OpenAI’s advanced voice mode is set to revolutionize AI interactions by making them more natural and engaging. As the feature rolls out to more users, OpenAI will continue to gather feedback and make necessary improvements. This development places OpenAI at the forefront of AI voice technology, with competitors like Amazon and Apple also planning updates to their voice assistants. OpenAI’s commitment to safety and quality in this rollout demonstrates a high standard for the industry, potentially redefining everyday AI interactions.
— Text-to-Speech (TTS) provided by gspeech