OpenAI has started rolling out the Advanced Voice Mode for ChatGPT, offering users their first experience with GPT-4o’s hyperrealistic audio responses. This alpha version will be initially available to a select group of ChatGPT Plus users, with a gradual rollout planned for all Plus users by the fall of 2024.
When OpenAI first demonstrated GPT-4o’s voice capabilities in May, the technology amazed audiences with its quick, lifelike responses. One voice, named Juniper, was particularly impressive, drawing comparisons to real human voices. This raised concerns about voice cloning and ethical implications, but OpenAI assured that it did not use any real person’s likeness in creating the voice.
ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode Features
OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode represents a significant upgrade from the existing voice capabilities of ChatGPT. Previously, ChatGPT used three separate models to convert voice to text, process the prompt, and convert text back to voice. In contrast, GPT-4o is a multimodal model, capable of handling these tasks simultaneously, resulting in faster and more fluid conversations.
GPT-4o can detect emotional intonations in users’ voices, including emotions such as sadness, excitement, or even singing. This feature promises a more engaging and natural interaction, enhancing the overall user experience.
Gradual Rollout and Safety Measures
OpenAI has taken a cautious approach with the release of Advanced Voice Mode, gradually rolling it out to monitor its usage closely. Selected users will receive notifications in the ChatGPT app, followed by an email with detailed instructions on how to access and use the feature.
To ensure safety and ethical usage, OpenAI has collaborated with over 100 external red teamers who tested the voice capabilities in 45 different languages. A comprehensive report on these safety efforts is expected to be published in early August.
Avoiding Deepfake Controversies
In response to the growing concerns around deepfake technology, OpenAI has implemented several safeguards. The Advanced Voice Mode is limited to four preset voices – Juniper, Breeze, Cove, and Ember – all created with the help of paid voice actors. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of ChatGPT’s voice capabilities to impersonate real individuals or public figures.
OpenAI spokesperson Lindsay McCallum emphasized, “ChatGPT cannot impersonate other people’s voices and will block outputs that deviate from one of the preset voices.” This proactive step is intended to avoid scenarios similar to those faced by other AI startups, such as ElevenLabs, whose technology was misused for impersonating public figures.
Addressing Copyright Concerns
In addition to preventing voice impersonations, OpenAI has introduced filters to block requests for generating music or other copyrighted audio content. This move is in response to the legal challenges faced by AI companies accused of copyright infringement.
OpenAI hopes to provide its customers with cutting-edge voice capabilities while navigating the complicated world of intellectual property rights by putting these filters into place.
Looking Ahead
As OpenAI continues to enhance ChatGPT’s functionalities, the introduction of the Advanced Voice Mode marks a significant milestone. This new feature promises to revolutionize how users interact with AI, providing more natural and immersive conversations. As OpenAI gradually rolls out the full capabilities of GPT-4o, ChatGPT Plus users’ initial feedback will shape the future of AI voice technology.
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