OpenAI launches ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode on web but here is the catch

OpenAI has recently released its Advanced Voice mode for the ChatGPT desktop. Launched in September, the feature was only available on iOS and Android apps earlier. Now it is expanding to the web, making it available for users to experience it on the browser as well. The company announced the update via an X post.
The feature, designed to make ChatGPT more conversational, is being rolled out this week to paying users, meaning you must be a Plus, Enterprise, Teams, or Edu subscriber to access it.
To begin a voice conversation on the web, click the Voice icon at the bottom-right of ChatGPT’s prompt window. You’ll need to grant your browser permission to use your computer’s microphone. Once the voice chat starts, you’ll be directed to a screen featuring a blue orb at the center.
ChatGPT offers nine different output voices, each with a distinct tone and personality. It offers an upgraded voice interaction that sounds natural and can convey emotions, modulate tone, and even emphasise certain words for a more lifelike feel. OpenAI has introduced five new voices for ChatGPT: Arbor, Maple, Sol, Spruce, and Vale, joining the previous voices Breeze, Juniper, Cove, and Ember. These new options aim to create an engaging, more natural dialogue, adding to the growing list of voice profiles that make AI conversations feel increasingly personal. The voice options are inspired by nature, reflecting OpenAI’s intent to make interactions feel smooth, comfortable, and familiar.
For example, you can select Arbor, which is described as “easygoing and versatile,” or Ember, known for being “confident and optimistic.” Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s chief product officer, mentioned that the feature will be available to free users in the coming weeks.
Plus and Team subscribers will have a daily limit when using Advanced Voice Mode, and this limit may vary. OpenAI will notify users when they have 15 minutes of voice usage left for the day. Free users will receive a monthly preview to try out the feature.
The most controversial Sky voice, which was eerily similar to Hollywood actor Scarlett Johansson’s voice, is still missing. After the actor officially filed a lawsuit, the artificial intelligence company paused the Sky voice in May 2024. OpenAI swiftly removed the voice, dubbed ‘Sky’, after backlash, claiming it wasn’t intended to mimic Scarlett Johansson’s voice, despite staff tweets referencing the movie Her. For perspective, Her is a Hollywood movie, where Johansson has given voice to the AI assistant.