OpenAI’s Voice Mode feature for ChatGPT has been postponed, with alpha testing scheduled to commence in July.

OpenAI stated that the feature’s delay was necessary to ensure it meets their standards for safety and reliability.

On Tuesday, OpenAI announced a delay in the launch of its enhanced Voice Mode for ChatGPT, featuring emotive expressions and real-time responses. The AI firm showcased this feature at last month’s Spring Updates event alongside its new GPT-4o model. OpenAI now intends to initiate alpha testing for the voice mode in the upcoming month. Details about other demonstrated features at the event, such as real-time video processing and screen-sharing capabilities for its chatbot, were not disclosed by the company.

OpenAI delays launch of GPT-4o features

OpenAI provided an update on the advanced Voice Mode feature in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Demonstrated last month, this feature utilizes GPT-4o to enable ChatGPT to respond verbally in real time to prompts and queries. The chatbot can modulate its voice, convey emotions, and even sing, marking it as a significant highlight of the OpenAI event.

However, OpenAI has confirmed that the feature will not be available before July. The delay is attributed to several factors, including enhancing the feature’s ability to detect and reject certain content. Additionally, OpenAI is scaling its infrastructure to ensure seamless access for millions of users to real-time voice responses without any latency.

The current strategy involves launching the feature for a limited group of ChatGPT Plus users as part of its alpha testing program. OpenAI intends to gather feedback and insights during this phase to refine the feature further. Following this, the AI firm plans to extend the feature to all Plus users in the fall, although a specific launch date has not been disclosed.

Furthermore, OpenAI acknowledged delays in deploying other showcased features from the event. This includes the capability for ChatGPT to interact in real-time with surroundings via user video feeds, as well as screen-sharing functionalities. The company assured users that updates regarding these features will be communicated as progress continues.

In a separate announcement, the AI firm launched its ChatGPT app for macOS on Tuesday, available to all users. The app introduces new functionalities like shortcut keys for easy access, direct loading of screenshots into the app, and compatibility with the standard Voice Mode.