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OpenAI’s Latest Move: ChatGPT on Call and WhatsApp
A New Era of AI Accessibility
OpenAI has unveiled a groundbreaking feature that allows users to interact with ChatGPT via phone and WhatsApp. By simply dialing 1-800-CHATGPT or messaging the AI assistant on WhatsApp, users can now experience the power of AI in a more intuitive and accessible way.
How Does It Work?
- Phone Calls: Users can call the dedicated number without needing an account. The initial experience is general, but OpenAI is working on integrating personalized features for a more tailored interaction. Users in the U.S. will receive 15 free minutes of call time each month.
- WhatsApp: Users can message ChatGPT directly on WhatsApp by sending a message to 1-800-242-8478. While account integration is still in development for a more personalized experience, users can engage in text-based conversations without needing to log in.
Why This Move?
OpenAI aims to make AI more accessible to a wider audience. By offering a simpler version of ChatGPT through familiar channels, the company hopes to introduce more people to the potential of AI. This initiative is particularly significant for users in areas with limited internet access, as it allows them to engage with AI technology without relying on data-heavy applications.
However, for advanced users who require more complex features and higher usage limits, the traditional web-based platform remains the best option.
A Glimpse into the Future of Search
In another significant development, OpenAI has made ChatGPT Search accessible to all users on its mobile apps and website. This AI-powered search engine aims to revolutionize how we search for information, offering more accurate and relevant results than traditional search engines.
Implications for Users
The introduction of ChatGPT on phone and WhatsApp represents a major step towards democratizing access to AI technology. With over 2.7 billion active users on WhatsApp globally, this integration provides an opportunity for OpenAI to reach diverse audiences, including those who may be less tech-savvy or unfamiliar with AI tools.
Limitations
While these features enhance accessibility, there are some limitations:
- Text-Based Interaction Only: Currently, WhatsApp messaging supports text conversations only; features like image uploads and personalized interactions are not available.
- Knowledge Cutoff: The knowledge base for this service is limited to information available until October 2023.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s latest innovations position the company as a major player in the future of technology by bridging the gap between humans and AI. By making ChatGPT available through phone calls and WhatsApp, OpenAI is shaping a future where AI becomes an integral part of daily life, fostering greater engagement and understanding of artificial intelligence among users worldwide.
Rozana, India’s leading rural retail platform, has secured ₹290 crore ($35 million) in a Series B funding round led by Bertelsmann India Investments (BII), with participation from Omidyar Network India, Vivid Capital, and Tana Investment Holding. This Rozana funding brings its total capital to over ₹500 crore, fueling hyperlocal expansion in underserved rural markets. Founded in 2021 by brothers Prashant and Prateek Chauhan, the startup’s phygital model blends micro-stores, app-based ordering, and last-mile delivery to connect 5 million+ users in 12 states with brands like ITC and HUL.
The ₹290 crore investment will supercharge Rozana’s rural omnichannel retail strategy, targeting 5x growth in 18 months. Plans include adding 5,000 micro-stores in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan; AI-powered inventory tech; and new categories like groceries and electronics. By empowering 20,000+ rural micro-entrepreneurs, Rozana taps into India’s $700 billion rural retail boom, where smartphone penetration and UPI drive 12% annual growth.
This Rozana Series B milestone positions it as a frontrunner against rivals like Ninjacart, eyeing unicorn status by 2028 amid ONDC tailwinds. CEO Prashant Chauhan emphasized, “We’re building rural prosperity through accessible premium brands.” For more on Rozana funding news and rural retail trends, stay updated on India’s startup ecosystem.
Peak XV Partners has launched three new funds totaling $1.3 billion, targeting India’s booming startup ecosystem. The lineup features the $600M Surge fund (8th edition) for early-stage ventures, a $300M Growth Fund for Series B+ scaling, and a $400M Acceleration Fund for rapid portfolio expansion. This commitment arrives as India’s VC inflows rebound, with AI and fintech leading 2026 trends.
These funds build on Peak XV’s legacy of backing unicorns like Zomato and Pine Labs, offering founders capital plus strategic guidance amid post-winter recovery. Early-stage deals surged 20% last year per Tracxn, positioning Peak XV to fuel the next wave of innovation in SaaS, climate tech, and consumer plays.
For startups eyeing Peak XV new funds or Surge fund 2026 applications, this signals prime opportunities. Investors and marketers should watch for deployment updates India remains a global VC hotspot.
Hyderabad, January 13, 2026 Neeman’s, India’s leading D2C footwear brand famed for sustainable shoes and patented PIXLL® technology, has raised $4 million from existing investors. This funding boosts its cumulative capital past $10 million since 2015, with a post-money valuation nearing $50 million. CEO Vijay Chahoria emphasized offline retail as the “next frontier,” planning 50+ new stores in Tier 2/3 cities like Jaipur and Lucknow to blend eco-friendly innovation with hands-on customer experiences.
In India’s booming D2C ecosystem where footwear sales hit ₹1.2 lakh crore in 2025 Neeman’s targets hybrid retail amid high online CAC and 25-30% returns. Backed by vegan, machine-washable shoes priced ₹2,000-4,000, the brand leverages PIXLL® (5x more breathable than leather) for carbon-neutral comfort. Recent 5x revenue growth to ₹100 crore ARR, 1M+ pairs sold via Myntra and stores, and awards at India D2C Summit 2025 position it ahead of rivals like Paaduks.
Neeman’s offline expansion India eyes the $15B sustainable footwear market by 2028, fueled by PLI schemes, Gen Z’s 70% eco-preference (Nielsen), and Southeast Asia exports. Challenges like real estate costs are offset by data-driven inventory and omnichannel QR tech. Watch for Q1 2026 launches in Hyderabad and Bengaluru redefining D2C success through authentic, “Wear the Change” branding.
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₹290 Crore Boost: Rozana’s Series B Funding Scales Rural Retail Network Nationwide
