On the 10th day of their 12 Days of Christmas, OpenAI announced a groundbreaking new feature: 1-800-CHATGPT – a way to access ChatGPT using nothing but your voice and a phone.
No computer? No smartphone? No worries. Whether you’re a student needing help with homework, a traveler looking for quick translations, or just someone who wants a quick answer or conversation, this feature connects you to ChatGPT through a simple phone call.
It’s a major step toward making AI accessible to everyone, proving that cutting-edge technology can thrive even where screens or devices are out of reach. 1-800-CHATGPT is free and ready to assist – just pick up the phone.
For more details, check out their official blog post.
What Is 1-800-CHATGPT?
1-800-CHATGPT is an experimental new launch designed to enable wider access to ChatGPT. OpenAI has introduced a toll-free phone service where anyone in the US can call and talk to ChatGPT in real-time for up to 15 minutes per month – completely free. For those outside the US? You can message ChatGPT for free using WhatsApp by texting 1-800-242-8478.
How to Start Chatting
If you’re ready to try it out, here’s how you can start a conversation:
- Phone Call: Dial 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) from the US or Canada.
- WhatsApp: Send a text to 1-800-242-8478 or click a direct link provided by OpenAI. A verified badge confirms it’s the real ChatGPT.
Remember, ChatGPT will never call or message you first. You’re in control of starting the conversation.
You don’t need an OpenAI account to use this feature. Note: ChatGPT will never initiate a call or message you first. You need to dial 1-800-242-8478 from a US/Canada number or start a WhatsApp chat from supported countries. Standard carrier fees may apply.
You can also start a WhatsApp conversation by clicking a shared link or scanning a QR code OpenAI provides.
This feature is powered by OpenAI’s Realtime API for voice calls and GPT-4o mini for WhatsApp messages. While voice and text responses have long been part of ChatGPT’s ecosystem, this phone service introduces an entirely new level of accessibility. You don’t need apps, internet, or even an account – just dial the number and ask away.
Why Did OpenAI Create This?
The new 1-800 service was actually born during OpenAI’s internal hack week – a fast-paced project built in just a few weeks. OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer Kevin Weil said on a livestream that it’s a way to make AI more accessible to people who don’t have access to computers or smartphones. It’s also a low-barrier introduction to ChatGPT for AI newcomers.
This feature also acts as a powerful entry point for those who may be curious about AI but unsure how to start. Not everyone is ready to download an app or create an account, so the phone service bridges that gap with a familiar, easy-to-use method.
How Does It Work?
📢 Calling
- Dial 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) in the US or Canada.
- ChatGPT will greet you with: “Hello again, it’s ChatGPT, an AI assistant. Our conversation may be reviewed for safety. How can I help you?”
- Start asking anything! From solving math problems to brainstorming ideas, you’ll get a live, voice-based AI response.
- Calls are limited to 15 minutes per phone number per month.
Tips for uninterrupted voice calls:
- Use 1-800-CHATGPT in quieter environments, as background noise can confuse the AI.
- On iPhone, enable Voice Isolation mic mode in your Control Center to reduce interruptions.
- Use headphones or earphones for clearer interactions.
📤 Messaging via WhatsApp
- Save the number 1-800-242-8478 to your contacts.
- Send a text on WhatsApp.
- You’ll get replies powered by GPT-4o mini – a slightly lighter version of the advanced GPT-4o.
- Like the phone service, it’s free to try!
Messaging on WhatsApp is a faster, global alternative for those outside the US or anyone looking for a convenient, app-based approach. The GPT-4o mini model delivers high-quality responses tailored to your queries.
Daily message limits apply on WhatsApp, and OpenAI may adjust usage limits if needed based on demand.
Supported Countries
While calling 1-800-CHATGPT is currently exclusive to the US and Canada, the WhatsApp service is available globally. OpenAI supports access to ChatGPT in over 150 countries and regions. Here’s a list of some supported countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- India
- Japan
- Germany
- France
- Thailand
- Brazil
- South Africa
- Mexico
From North America to Europe, Asia to Africa, OpenAI has rapidly expanded ChatGPT’s reach, ensuring that nearly anyone with internet access can experience AI-powered conversations. Here is the full list of supported countries and territories. Keep in mind that accessing ChatGPT from unsupported locations may result in account suspension.
FAQs About 1-800-CHATGPT
Here are some of the most common questions about new ChatGPT hotline. You can find more at OpenAI’s website.
1. How long can I talk to ChatGPT for free?
You get 15 minutes of free voice calls per month per phone number.
2. Can I use 1-800-CHATGPT outside of the US or Canada?
No, the phone call service is currently US- and Canada-only. However, the WhatsApp feature works globally.
3. What happens when I hit the usage limit?
You will receive a notice as you approach your limit and when you hit it. You can continue chatting with ChatGPT by downloading the app at chatgpt.com.
4. Do I need an OpenAI account to use this feature?
No account is needed to call the 1-800 number or message via WhatsApp.
5. Why does 1-800-CHATGPT stop responding to me?
This may occur due to safety measures, excessive noise, or capacity limits. If you believe your prompts are within guidelines, send feedback via OpenAI’s support channels.
6. Can I add ChatGPT to WhatsApp group chats?
No, group chat functionality is not supported at this time.
7. Can OpenAI use my voice calls or messages to train their models?
No. OpenAI explicitly states calls and messages will not be used to train their large language models.
8. How do I know I’m messaging the real ChatGPT on WhatsApp?
Check for the verified badge and the official phone number 1-800-242-8478.
9. Can I export or delete my data?
Yes. Your conversations are linked to your phone number. Review OpenAI’s Privacy Policy for more details.
Final Thoughts
OpenAI has taken one more step to make AI a seamless part of daily life. Whether you’re calling on a lunch break, testing it out on an old landline for fun, or sending a quick WhatsApp message while traveling, 1-800-CHATGPT brings AI to everyone. It’s the most convenient way yet to try ChatGPT – and it’s free.
With phone lines and WhatsApp now in the mix, OpenAI has opened new doors for interaction. So whether you’re a seasoned AI user or just getting started, this is your chance to experience ChatGPT in a whole new way.
So what are you waiting for? Give it a call.