OpenAI Tests Phone Number Sign-Ups for ChatGPT

In a move aimed at streamlining user access, OpenAI is currently testing a new feature that allows new ChatGPT users in the U.S. and India to sign up using just their phone numbers—no email needed! This exciting development was first highlighted by software engineer Tibor Blaho.

Beta Testing in the U.S. and India

The phone number-only sign-up is in its beta phase, making it easier for users to jump into the ChatGPT experience. However, there are some important limitations to keep in mind:

• Paid Plans: Users who register with their phone numbers will not have the ability to upgrade to OpenAI’s premium services, such as ChatGPT Plus or ChatGPT Pro, unless they verify their accounts with an email.
• Multi-Factor Authentication: For those who prioritize security, multi-factor authentication is not an option without a valid email.
• Account Restrictions: Once a phone number is linked to a ChatGPT account, it becomes blocked from creating any new accounts. OpenAI has warned that recycled phone numbers could result in errors, with no current workaround available. Users experiencing issues may need to reach out to support or wait for an upcoming system update anticipated in 2025.

Local Focus and Future Plans

At this time, OpenAI has no plans to expand this phone number-only sign-up feature beyond the U.S. and India. However, the company’s efforts underscore its commitment to making ChatGPT more accessible and user-friendly.

In December, OpenAI made waves by allowing U.S. users to have 15 minutes of free phone chats with ChatGPT each month. Additionally, they introduced a version of ChatGPT on WhatsApp, albeit with limited functionality and chat restrictions.

User Base and Financial Outlook

ChatGPT boasts an impressive user base of over 300 million weekly users, a statistic that highlights the platform’s growing popularity. With collective user contributions potentially bringing in revenue of $3.7 billion in 2024, OpenAI is on a promising path. Yet, despite this growth, profitability remains a distant goal.

The company has faced significant financial challenges, reportedly losing around $5 billion in fiscal year 2024 alone. This substantial loss comes from various expenses, including office space, staff salaries, and the infrastructure needed for AI training. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has hinted at potentially increasing subscription prices and exploring usage-based pricing models to turn things around.

Conclusion

As OpenAI continues testing innovative features like the phone number-only sign-up for ChatGPT, users stand to benefit from more accessible and streamlined experiences. The shift towards reducing barriers could welcome an influx of new users eager to dive into the world of AI.

The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.