OpenAI has recently rolled out a new feature in its ChatGPT mobile app that allows users to engage in voice conversations even when the application is running in the background or the screen is turned off. This innovation opens up a range of possibilities, such as interacting with the AI while using other apps on your smartphone.
The update, reminiscent of Google’s Astra project, brings convenience and flexibility to users who can now seamlessly continue their conversations with the AI without having to keep the app in the foreground. By enabling the Background Conversations option in the voice mode settings, users can make the most of this new functionality.
While the new feature is impressive, it has raised concerns among some users regarding privacy. The ability for ChatGPT to potentially listen in on or track usage of other apps even when not actively engaged with the AI has sparked unease. To address these privacy concerns, OpenAI has included an option to deactivate the Background Conversations feature.
Users can easily disable this function by navigating to the ChatGPT app settings, selecting voice mode, and turning off the Background Conversations option. It’s important to note that this option is currently in the process of being phased out and may not be available to all users just yet.
Looking ahead, OpenAI is planning to introduce further voice enhancements with GPT-4o, including faster voice-to-voice conversations and the ability to share videos. These advancements underscore the growing integration of AI voice assistants into our daily lives, shaping the future of human-AI interactions.
