OpenAI tests phone number-only ChatGPT signups

OpenAI is testing a new feature allowing new ChatGPT users in the U.S. and India to sign up using only a phone number, bypassing the need for an email. However, users who register this way face limitations, such as being unable to upgrade to paid plans or use multi-factor authentication without email verification. Additionally, once a phone number is used, it cannot be reused for another account, and there is no current workaround for recycled numbers. OpenAI has no plans to expand this feature to other regions.

In its pursuit of growth, OpenAI is exploring various methods to increase accessibility to ChatGPT, including a free 15-minute monthly phone chat for U.S. users and a limited-functionality integration with WhatsApp. Despite having over 300 million weekly users and significant revenue expectations, OpenAI is not yet profitable, having lost around $5 billion in fiscal year 2024. The company is considering raising subscription prices and exploring usage-based pricing to address financial challenges.

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OpenAI is testing a feature that allows new ChatGPT users to sign up with only a phone number, but with restrictions such as no access to paid plans without email verification.
The phone number-only sign-up feature is in beta in the U.S. and India, with no plans to expand to other regions.
OpenAI is experimenting with ways to increase user engagement, such as offering free phone-based ChatGPT interactions and integrating ChatGPT with WhatsApp.
Despite high user numbers and significant revenue expectations, OpenAI is not yet profitable and is considering pricing adjustments to address financial losses.

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OpenAI tests phone number-only ChatGPT signups | TechCrunch

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