OpenAI has announced the rollout of its Advanced Voice Mode (AVM) to a broader range of paying ChatGPT customers. This audio feature enhances the naturalness of conversations with ChatGPT. In addition, it will initially be available to users in the Plus and Teams tiers, with Enterprise and Edu customers set to gain access next week.
OpenAI Revamped Design
As part of the launch, AVM is receiving a new design. A Blue animated sphere will now represent the feature. Additionally, it will replace the animated black dots shown during its initial showcase in May. An AVM pop-up will appear next to the voice icon in the ChatGPT app when AVM is available.
New Voices Added
ChatGPT is also introducing five new voices for users to explore: Arbor, Maple, Sol, Spruce, and Vale. This addition brings the total number of voices available to nine. Additionally, it nearly matches the offerings from Google’s Gemini Live. Natural names for the voices align with the goal of making interactions feel organic and relatable.
Missing Voice: Sky
Notably absent from this new lineup is the voice named Sky. OpenAI previously showcased this voice in its spring update. However, the company removed it following a legal claim from actress Scarlett Johansson. She argued that Sky’s voice resembled her own too closely, prompting OpenAI to retract it. In addition, she stated that any resemblance was unintentional despite earlier mentions by staff referencing the film “Her.”
Absence of Video and Screen Sharing Features by OpenAI
Another feature that will not be part of this rollout is ChatGPT’s video and screen-sharing capabilities. The company introduced this feature during the spring update. This technology would allow GPT-4o to process visual and audible information simultaneously. Demonstrations included real-time interactions with math problems or code displayed on a screen. Currently, OpenAI has not provided a timeline for the launch of these multimodal features.
Improvements in AVM Functionality
Despite the missing features, OpenAI claims to have made significant improvements since the limited alpha testing of AVM. The voice feature is reportedly better at understanding various accents. In addition, it makes conversations smoother and quicker. Initial tests indicated some glitches. However, OpenAI asserts that the company has addressed these issues.
OpenAI Customization Features Expanded
OpenAI is also extending some customization options to AVM. Users will have access to Custom Instructions. Thus, it will allow them to tailor how ChatGPT responds, and Memory. Additionally, it will enable the AI to remember previous conversations for future reference.
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Regional Availability
An OpenAI spokesperson has confirmed that AVM is not accessible in several regions. In addition, it includes the EU, the U.K., Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
