OpenAI Enhances ChatGPT's Advanced Voice Mode for Smoother Conversations

OpenAI has rolled out updates to its Advanced Voice Mode, enhancing its AI voice assistant for more natural and uninterrupted conversations in ChatGPT. Announced by Manuka Stratta, a post-training researcher at OpenAI, the changes were shared in a video on the company's official social media channels on Monday.

A key improvement addresses a common frustration with AI voice assistants: interruptions. The updated version now allows users to pause without the AI cutting in, making conversations smoother and more natural. Free ChatGPT users can experience this upgrade, while paying subscribers — including those using ChatGPT Plus, Teams, Edu, Business, and Pro tiers — will benefit from even fewer interruptions.

Additionally, paying users will notice a more refined AI personality. According to an OpenAI spokesperson, the AI voice assistant is now “more direct, engaging, concise, specific, and creative” in its responses.

The updates arrive as competition in the AI voice assistant market heats up. Startups like Sesame, backed by Andreessen Horowitz and co-founded by Brendan Iribe of Oculus, have gained attention for their lifelike AI voices, Maya and Miles. Meanwhile, tech giants like Amazon are making strides with AI-powered assistants, including the upcoming LLM-powered version of Alexa.

With these enhancements, OpenAI aims to deliver a more enjoyable and seamless conversational experience, positioning ChatGPT as a strong contender in the evolving AI voice assistant landscape.