On September 24, OpenAI began rolling out its highly anticipated Advanced Voice feature for ChatGPT users. This update is available for Plus and Team users over the coming week.
New Voice Feature Launch
The Advanced Voice feature enhances the ChatGPT experience, allowing faster and more intuitive conversations. It even includes a playful touch, saying 'Sorry I’m late' in over 50 languages, acknowledging its delayed release.
New Voices and Capabilities
OpenAI introduces five new voices—Arbor, Maple, SXol, Spruce, and Vale—joining existing options like Breeze, Juniper, Cove, and Ember. These voices aim to make interactions feel more natural, letting users interrupt or change topics during chats. With this update, users can customize their chatbot experience through 'memories,' enabling the AI to remember important details from past conversations. However, OpenAI noted that the voice experience may not work perfectly with in-car Bluetooth or speakerphones, as background noise can interrupt chats.
User Reactions and Beyond
Despite the excitement, some users expressed disappointment with the new voices compared to the previously planned 'Sky' voice, which was canceled after actress Scarlett Johansson raised concerns about its similarities to her voice. Although Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, insisted the resemblance was unintentional, the controversy sparked significant discussion. The Advanced Voice feature represents a significant step forward in making AI interactions more human-like and engaging for users.
The new voice feature from OpenAI promises to make using ChatGPT more enjoyable and personalized, despite some challenges and criticism.
Comments