ChatGPT’s voice mode is becoming more usable. On Tuesday, OpenAI announced an update to the user interface of its popular AI chatbot. Users can now access ChatGPT Voice directly inside their chat, eliminating the need to switch to a separate mode.
This means you can converse with the chatbot and view its responses, including shared images, as you talk. Previously, you were taken to a separate screen where you interacted with an animated blue circle representing the voice interface. That screen included a mute button, an option to record live video, and an option to return to the default text-based mode.
During those prior conversations, you could only listen to ChatGPT’s responses without seeing them on screen. This was inconvenient if you missed a response, as you had to exit the separate voice mode to see the text.
Now, you can talk and watch the answers appear as ChatGPT responds to your questions. You can also review your earlier messages and view visuals like images or maps in real time during your conversations.
This change makes interacting with the AI chatbot more natural, as you can move more easily between speech and text in the same conversation. However, you will still need to tap an “end” button to stop the voice conversation when you are ready to switch back to text.
This revamped voice mode is the new default and is currently rolling out to all users across web and mobile apps.
For those who prefer the separate voice mode, OpenAI states they can still revert to the original experience under “Voice Mode” in “Settings.” There, they will see a new option to turn on “Separate mode.”