How to Use the Advanced Voice Mode in ChatGPT | AI Basics
A clear, step-by-step guide
You can talk to ChatGPT instead of typing, and it is easy to set up even if you are not a computer expert. One thing to get straight first, because the naming has changed. There are now three voice options, and OpenAI describes them like this on its own help page: Live is the current experience, powered by GPT-Live-1 on paid plans and GPT-Live-1 mini on Free, and it listens and speaks at the same time. Advanced is, in OpenAI’s words, “the previous real-time Voice experience”, still there for mobile features like video and screen sharing. Standard transcribes what you say and then answers, one turn at a time. This guide was written for Advanced. The steps are the same for Live, which is what you will land in by default.
Step 1: Click the Voice Button
Select the Voice icon in the message bar. OpenAI’s help page words it exactly that way, so if the icon has moved since this screenshot was taken, that is the thing to look for.
Step 2: Allow Microphone Access
Your browser will now ask for permission to use your microphone. Choose either “Allow while visiting the site” or “Allow this time” to continue.
Step 3: Review the Voice Features
You’ll now see an overview of the voice mode. It highlights features like:
- ✓ Natural conversations
- ✓ Personalized responses
- ✓ Control over audio recordings
Click “Continue” to proceed.
Step 4: Choose a Voice
Select a voice that suits your preference. Some are calm and composed, others more upbeat. Browse the options and click “Start new chat” when ready.
Step 5: Start Talking
You are now in a live voice chat. You’ll see two buttons at the bottom of the screen:
- 🎙 Microphone – tap to speak
- ✖ X – tap to end the session
Final Tip
Speak normally and clearly, just like in a phone call. You don’t need to use any special commands – the system understands natural speech and will respond accordingly.
You’re Ready
The Advanced Voice Mode makes ChatGPT feel more human. It’s ideal for hands-free use, practicing a new language, or simply having a more natural conversation.
Keep reading. Voice is one way in. For the rest of the toolbox, I sorted the main tools by what they are good at. And for the everyday jobs worth using any of them on, this is where I would start.
Correction, 7 September 2026. This guide called Advanced Voice Mode “new”. It is now the previous experience; Live is the current one. The screenshots below are older than the current interface.
