A new leak on X.com suggests that a group of lucky ChatGPT Plus users may start using Advanced Voice Mode as early as today, Tuesday, September 24, 2024. If you’re among the selected few, you’ll experience this exciting new feature ahead of a wider release.
Advanced Voice mode seems to be confirmed to be releasing to a select number of users this Tuesday, September 24, 2024! pic.twitter.com/XJa2o4HIaJ
— “Brian” (@Arktophylaxxx) September 23, 2024
Advanced Voice Mode, first demonstrated by OpenAI in May this year, lets you have human-like conversations with ChatGPT on your smartphone. Unlike text-based chats, you’ll be able to speak directly to ChatGPT, and it will respond with a more natural tone, similar to talking with a real person. Additionally, you can interrupt ChatGPT if its responses are too lengthy, making the conversation feel even more fluid and lifelike. You can also ask complex questions and expect more detailed and thoughtful answers.
The leak shows an email from the ChatGPT team informing a user that Advanced Voice Mode is “being rolled out in a limited alpha to a select group of users.” The email mentions that access to this alpha version will begin on September 24, 2024. However, access will depend on several factors, including participation invitations and specific criteria set for the alpha testing phase. In short, not everyone will be able to try this feature yet, and OpenAI is careful in how they choose their testers.
Alpha version rollout
When OpenAI initially revealed Advanced Voice Mode, they stated, “All Plus users will have access by the end of autumn.” So, if you haven’t been selected in this limited alpha phase, don’t worry—you’ll likely get access before the season ends. This gradual rollout is a positive sign, indicating that the full launch is on track to meet its expected schedule.
If you’re a ChatGPT Plus user, you’ve likely already been enjoying the benefits of the service. The monthly subscription costs US$20 (£16, AU$30) and gives you access to various language models, including the newly launched version 01-preview. This model is praised for its superior ability to solve mathematical problems and reason through complex tasks, making ChatGPT an even more powerful tool.
Competition heats up
While OpenAI led the way earlier this year with its Advanced Voice Mode demonstration, the company faces growing competition. Google recently launched its conversational AI, Gemini Live, which hit the market before OpenAI’s offering. Apple’s upcoming Siri 2.0, a more advanced version of their existing AI assistant, has also been gaining attention. Although Siri 2.0 hasn’t been officially released yet, Apple has provided demos and hints at a release timeline, meaning it might not be long before users can try it.
While OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode shows promise, it remains to be seen whether it will stay ahead of its competitors. However, if you’re one of the few who gains access to the alpha version today, you’ll get to explore this cutting-edge technology before most users.
