OpenAI's popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, is getting a new feature: "Read Aloud." This feature, available on both the web version and the iOS and Android ChatGPT apps, allows users to have the chatbot's responses read aloud in one of five voice options. The move is a significant step towards enhancing accessibility and catering to a broader user base.
The "Read Aloud" feature can speak 37 languages and will auto-detect the language of the text it's reading.
Joanne Jang, who leads product for model behavior at OpenAI, shared insights about the company's focus on accessibility. OpenAI has been working closely with organizations like Be My Eyes to gain feedback from the Blind and low vision community. Jang highlighted that the collaboration has been enlightening, with users employing the technology in unexpected ways, such as taking pictures of their outfits and asking ChatGPT if they match, or taking pictures of their gardens and having them described.
Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, praised OpenAI's efforts, stating that the company "walks the walk when it comes to making accessibility a high priority during development." He added, "They took a lot of engineering time [and] a lot of project [and] product manager time to work on accessibility when no one was watching."
"I think that's when we kind of learned, 'Okay, there's something here about AI,'" Jang said. "It's the fact that it's not a person who can provide an alternative angle to accessibility—[the chatbot] provides a new, more objective perspective."
The "Read Aloud" feature is a testament to OpenAI's commitment to making AI technology beneficial for all. It opens up another avenue for users to interact with advanced technology, making it more accessible for those who may find writing or typing challenging.
ChatGPT can now read responses to you.
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) March 4, 2024
On iOS or Android, tap and hold the message and then tap “Read Aloud”. We’ve also started rolling on web - click the "Read Aloud" button below the message. pic.twitter.com/KevIkgAFbG
As always, OpenAI welcomes feedback from users to improve the technology and cater better to diverse needs. The "Read Aloud" feature is a significant step in this direction, making AI technology more inclusive and beneficial for all.