OpenAI has rolled out improvements to its ChatGPT voice assistant in an effort to make interactions more natural and less frustrating.

The latest update to Advanced Voice Mode allows users to pause mid-sentence without being cut off-a common issue with AI voice tools that often interrupt users during brief silences or deep breaths.

Free users of ChatGPT now benefit from this smoother conversational experience, while paying subscribers-including those on the Plus, Teams, Edu, Business, and Pro plans-also enjoy a more refined voice assistant.

The AI now speaks with a more engaging and creative tone, delivering answers that are clearer and more direct.

OpenAI's goal is to create a more personable assistant that feels comfortable to speak with. According to the company, the changes make the AI more enjoyable to use and better equipped for real-time conversation.

These upgrades come as competition in the AI voice market heats up. Startups like Sesame, backed by major investors, are gaining attention with lifelike AI voices, while tech giants like Amazon are preparing to release enhanced voice assistants powered by large language models.