A New Year Gift from ChatGPT: Enhanced Voice Mode with Video and Screen Sharing
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Since May 2024, I have been eagerly waiting for the video call feature that was supposed to complement ChatGPT’s advanced voice mode. Finally, it appears that the feature has arrived today. OpenAI, which introduced the advanced voice mode after months of anticipation, has unveiled this feature during its 12-day event.
Here is the old promotional video:
In fact, this video demonstrates the use of a feature showcased during a live presentation of GPT-4o. While the live presentation itself is no longer available, this video was shared on May 13, 2024, the same date as the live event. Therefore, the features introduced today are ones we’ve been waiting for since May 13.
Today, OpenAI introduced two remarkable features for ChatGPT as part of its ‘12 Days of OpenAI” innovation campaign. One of these features is an impressive addition to ChatGPT’s voice interaction mode: video input and screen sharing. The other is a festive Santa Mode that brings a cheerful spirit to your conversations.
Santa Mode: Cheerful Laughter for the New Year
The new Santa Mode stands out as an unusual voice option introduced by ChatGPT. With this mode, OpenAI not only gave ChatGPT a new voice but also revamped its visual elements. The voice button transformed into a snowflake icon, and the classic ChatGPT voice orb turned into a snow globe-themed circle.
Santa Mode is now available worldwide and will remain active until early January. This feature temporarily records all your chats without affecting ChatGPT’s permanent memory. Thus, when you let your children chat with Santa, previous conversations won’t be saved.
The Era of Video and Screen Sharing in Voice Mode
Alongside Santa Mode, another feature takes Voice Mode to the next level by introducing video and screen sharing capabilities. This much-anticipated development enhances ChatGPT’s interactivity and user experience.
To utilize this feature:
- Open the ChatGPT mobile app.
- Tap the voice icon next to the chat bar.
- Tap the new video icon in the bottom-left corner to activate video mode.
- Alternatively, use the three-dot menu to select the screen sharing option.
OpenAI states that this feature will initially be available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users in most countries. Users in regions such as the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, and Liechtenstein will gain access soon. Enterprise and Education plan users will be able to experience it starting in January.
Visually Enhanced Voice Interaction
With the new video and screen sharing features, ChatGPT has significantly expanded the potential of its voice mode. Users can now show their surroundings directly or share visible elements on their device screens instead of relying solely on text-based descriptions. This makes tasks like explaining settings menus or solving mathematical problems more convenient.
OpenAI aims to use this visual functionality to offer new opportunities, particularly in technical support, education, and one-on-one guidance. However, it also emphasizes the need for heightened awareness regarding privacy and security.
Competitors and a New Era
OpenAI’s move comes in the same week that Google introduced its next-generation Gemini 2.0 model. Gemini 2.0’s ability to respond to visual and voice inputs intensifies the competition. However, OpenAI’s creative additions like Santa Mode continue to set it apart.
The voice and visual features of ChatGPT are expected to roll out to various parts of the world by the end of this year.
