OpenAI’s Spring Updates: Discover the New ChatGPT 4o Functions

In the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), OpenAI continues to make waves. The spring updates have introduced a host of impressive functions, especially with the launch of ChatGPT 4o. The “o” in ChatGPT 4o stands for “omnimodal,” highlighting the versatile and comprehensive capabilities of this latest version. In this article, we delve deep into the new features and demonstrate how they revolutionize daily life and various professional applications.

Introduction to ChatGPT 4o

What is ChatGPT 4o?

ChatGPT 4o is the latest version of OpenAI’s language model. This version is characterized by enhanced multimodality, meaning it can understand and generate not only text but also process video and audio data. These new capabilities open the door to a multitude of new applications that can be highly beneficial in both private and professional contexts.

New and Improved Functions of ChatGPT 4o

Built-in Multimodality

Unlike its predecessor GPT-4, the new model is natively multimodal. It can understand speech and respond directly without transcribing text first. This makes it not only more efficient and useful as a voice assistant but also significantly faster.

Enhanced Search Functions

OpenAI has upgraded the search functionality in ChatGPT. This update allows for more precise and faster information retrieval, which is particularly advantageous for users who need quick answers.

Support for More File Formats

ChatGPT 4o now supports the upload of a wider range of file formats, including video and audio. This extended support provides users with more flexibility and makes it easier to work with different media types.

Applications of ChatGPT 4o Functions

Video and Voice Functions: A Gamechanger

One of the most notable innovations is the integration of video and voice functions. These allow users to interact with ChatGPT in a more natural and intuitive way.

BeMyEyes: Assistance for the Visually Impaired

In collaboration with the BeMyEyes app, OpenAI demonstrates how ChatGPT 4o can improve the lives of visually impaired people. In a video, a blind person uses ChatGPT 4o to find and stop a free taxi through video and voice support. This application shows the immense potential of ChatGPT 4o to provide accessible solutions and enhance the independence of people with visual impairments.

BeMyEyes in Action

MacOS App with Screen Sharing

Another video illustrates the use of the new MacOS app with screen sharing functionality. Here, ChatGPT 4o helps a student solve a math problem. This function is especially useful for educational purposes, creating an interactive learning environment where students can receive real-time support. This application could revolutionize tutoring and distance learning, enhancing the quality of education.

ChatGPT 4o as a Studyaid / Tutoring

Multilingual Support: Learning with ChatGPT 4o

The ability to use ChatGPT 4o in various languages significantly expands its application possibilities. A video shows the voice function being used to learn Spanish. This feature is ideal for language learners seeking an immersive learning method. By speaking and listening in the target language, learners can efficiently improve their language skills in a practical setting.

Learn Spanish using Voice and Video

Voice Function for Meetings

ChatGPT 4o’s voice function can also be used in professional environments. Another video demonstrates how the function is used to take notes in a meeting and ask questions. This application is particularly useful for busy professionals looking to increase their efficiency by ensuring no important information is lost and immediate clarifications are possible.

Transcribe Meetings and ask Questions

Accessibility and Availability

Availability and Access

The new functions are already available to many paying ChatGPT subscribers. They are accessible on the web, in the app, and, for some, in the desktop app. Some free users also have access, and the rollout is gradually happening for all users over the coming weeks. However, free users will have five times fewer messages to Omni per hour than Plus subscribers, as the Omni model is more expensive to run.

New Desktop App for macOS

OpenAI has announced a new desktop app for macOS, available exclusively on devices with Apple Silicon chips and macOS Sonoma. This app will be available on the Mac App Store in the coming weeks, offering seamless integration with the new ChatGPT 4o functions.

Early Access and Installation Process

Some Plus and Teams plan users are already receiving early access to the new macOS app. OpenAI sends an email with a download link that includes a dmg file for installing the app. Note that the app can only be used after OpenAI authorizes the account.

API Features and Performance Improvements

Enhanced Capabilities and Performance

The new model, GPT-4o 6.8k, offers impressive performance improvements in text, audio, and vision capacities. It surpasses GPT-4 Turbo in various areas, setting new benchmarks in multilingual capabilities and processing audio and video data.

Faster and Cheaper Usage

GPT-4o is twice as fast in token generation and 50% cheaper compared to GPT-4 Turbo. These efficiency improvements make it an attractive choice for developers and businesses.

Increased Rate Limits

With GPT-4o, users have up to five times higher rate limits, allowing for faster and more extensive data processing. This is especially beneficial for developers with high usage demands.

Improved Vision and Language Capabilities

GPT-4o offers enhanced vision capabilities and optimized processing of non-English languages. These improvements make the model more versatile and powerful in various applications.

API Support

The model is now available through various APIs, including the Chat Completions API, Assistants API, and Batch API. Users can test the model through the API documentation and the Playground, which now also supports vision functions.

Future Prospects: Where is ChatGPT 4o Headed?

The development of ChatGPT 4o marks a significant advancement in AI technology. The ability to process multimodal data and enable natural interactions will fundamentally change how we interact with machines. In the coming years, we can expect these technologies to be further refined and more deeply integrated into our daily lives.

Conclusion

ChatGPT 4o from OpenAI introduces a range of revolutionary functions that go far beyond previous capabilities. The integration of video and voice functions opens up new application possibilities, from assistance for the visually impaired to educational purposes and professional uses. With ChatGPT 4o, we are looking at a future where AI becomes even more ubiquitous and useful.

Share your thoughts in the comments and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated! Also, check out our workshops and courses to learn more about AI and enhance your skills. Follow Sophie Pochtler on LinkedIn for the latest updates!