OpenAI has delayed the launch of ChatGPT’s new Voice Mode, initially showcased in May, to improve its quality and functionality. This feature, which enables ChatGPT to interact with users in a more humanlike manner, was set to roll out within weeks to paying users but has now been pushed to July for a small group of ChatGPT Plus users, with a broader release potentially delayed until fall.
On X, OpenAI explained that additional time is needed to enhance the model’s ability to detect and refuse certain content, improve user experience, and prepare the infrastructure to handle millions of real-time responses. The alpha phase will gather feedback before expanding the feature’s availability based on the learnings.
But Other Features Are On Track
Despite the delay in Voice Mode, other features such as video and screen sharing remain on schedule. These include capabilities like solving math problems from images and explaining device settings, available on both smartphones and desktop clients, including the new macOS app.
Voice Mode aims to create more natural, emotion-responsive interactions, bringing AI closer to real-time human conversations. However, the feature has faced controversy due to the default “Sky” voice, which closely resembled actress Scarlett Johansson’s voice. Johansson, who refused OpenAI’s licensing requests, sought legal advice on the voice’s development. OpenAI denied using her voice without permission but subsequently removed the controversial voice.
OpenAI’s advanced Voice Mode, likened to Samantha from the 2013 movie “Her,” promises an enhanced user experience with AI that understands and responds with emotions and nonverbal cues. However, users will have to wait until fall to experience these advancements, pending the completion of internal safety and reliability checks.
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