OpenAI is currently testing a new feature that allows users in the United States and India to sign up for ChatGPT using only a phone number, eliminating the need for an email address.
Key Details:
- Beta Testing Regions: The phone number-only signup option is being gradually introduced in the U.S. and India. There are no current plans to expand this feature to other regions. OpenAI Help Center
- Account Limitations: Users who register with just a phone number will not have immediate access to certain features. For instance, upgrading to paid plans like ChatGPT Plus or Pro requires email verification. Additionally, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) is not directly available for phone-only accounts; however, after linking an email, users can enable MFA. OpenAI Help Center
- Phone Number Reuse Policy: A single phone number can be used to create up to three OpenAI accounts. Once a phone number has been associated with an account, even if that account is deleted, the number cannot be used to create new accounts beyond this limit. OpenAI Help Center
This initiative aims to simplify the onboarding process for new users, particularly in regions where email access may be less prevalent. By allowing phone number-only signups, OpenAI seeks to make ChatGPT more accessible to a broader audience.
It’s important to note that while this feature enhances accessibility, certain functionalities remain tied to email verification. Users who wish to access premium services or additional security features will need to link an email address to their accounts.
