OpenAI has launched a new feature allowing you to call ChatGPT for free. On the 10th day of its “Ship-mas” event, the company introduced a service where you can interact with ChatGPT by phone for up to 15 minutes monthly. Dial 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) to try it out.
This feature, available exclusively in the US, is OpenAI’s way of making AI accessible to everyone. If you’re outside the US, you can still connect to ChatGPT through WhatsApp globally, with the same time limit applied.
What you need to know about the service
You’re allowed 15 minutes of free use per phone number per month, but resourceful users could take advantage of multiple phone numbers, such as creating Google Voice accounts, to get additional time. OpenAI’s Realtime API powers this service for the phone system, while the WhatsApp integration uses GPT-4o mini, which is linked through the WhatsApp API.
OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer Kevin Weil explained during a livestream that this feature was a quick turnaround project that had been developed in just a few weeks. The goal is to provide a simplified version of ChatGPT that works through familiar communication methods like phone calls and messaging.
This new phone service could be a stepping stone for those intimidated by web-based AI tools. OpenAI says it’s an affordable way to explore what AI can do, but it won’t replace the more advanced features available through the regular ChatGPT interface. For personalised options, higher usage limits, and enhanced features, you’ll still need to stick with your existing ChatGPT account.
A familiar idea with a new twist
Interestingly, Google tried something similar in 2007 with its GOOG-411 service, which offered free directory assistance via voice. Although discontinued in 2010, it’s believed that Google’s primary aim was to gather a wide range of voice samples to improve its speech recognition technology. Google VP Marissa Mayer openly acknowledged that GOOG-411 aimed to create a robust speech recognition model by collecting diverse voice and intonation samples.
Despite the similarities, OpenAI has emphasised that it won’t use these calls to train its language models. OpenAI spokesperson Taya Christianson confirmed that no voice data from this feature will improve ChatGPT’s capabilities.
Why it matters
This move by OpenAI represents another step in making AI tools available to more people in an accessible and cost-effective way. While the 15-minute limit may feel short, it’s an opportunity to try AI through a format that doesn’t require technical skills or a high-end device. Whether you’re curious about what ChatGPT can do or need a quick, free AI assistant, 1-800-CHATGPT could be a good starting point.
