If ChatGPT already offered a tool that converts your voice into prompts for its artificial intelligence, it brought a big improvement to this vocal interface in 2024. In May, OpenAI presented its GPT-4o model, a new model of AI as efficient as GPT-4, but which natively supports the audio format (instead of using another model which converts voice into text). And at the same time, the company presented an advanced version of Voice Mode, which allows you to have natural interactions, as if you were chatting with humans. “Advanced voice uses the native audio capabilities of GPT-4o and delivers more natural, real-time conversations that pick up nonverbal cues, such as the speed at which you speak, and can respond with emotion”explains OpenAI on its FAQ.
Unfortunately, while this feature has been available in many countries for a while, it has been blocked in the European Union. Indeed, it is not uncommon for tech players to delay the launch of certain new products in the EU, to comply with stricter rules from Brussels. But the good news is that OpenAI has just ended this blockage. In a post on X, it indicates that ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode is now available for ChatGPT Plus subscribers in the European Union, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.
Well yes.
All Plus users in the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein now have access to Advanced Voice.
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) October 22, 2024
How to try ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode?
If you have a paid account on ChatGPT, you can test this feature today. To start a voice chat with ChatGPT, simply tap the Voice icon at the bottom right of the screen.
If you are in advanced mode, ChatGPT presents a screen with a blue orb in the center. And if you’re using advanced mode for the first time, OpenAI will present you with a screen where you need to choose a voice.
On the other hand, if you are in standard mode, you will see a black orb in the center of the screen.
It should be noted that, even for paying ChatGPT users, advanced voice mode is not available unlimited. And OpenAI will display a notification below the screen when you are close to the daily limit for using this advanced mode.
In any case, if you’ve ever used ChatGPT’s standard voice mode, you should immediately notice a noticeable difference between it and the advanced mode, which is smoother and more natural.
Otherwise, it should be noted that Google already offers a similar functionality on Gemini Live. And it’s free on Android smartphones.
- In May, OpenAI presented GPT-4o as well as an advanced Voice Mode which allows very natural conversations with AI
- This mode was initially blocked in the EU, but this blockage has just been lifted by OpenAI
- The feature is available to paid ChatGPT users
