ChatGPT Voice Blocked in France: Here’s How to Bypass the Restrictions

For several months, users have been eagerly anticipating the official release of ChatGPT Voice. Today, OpenAI has confirmed its availability to subscribers of ChatGPT Plus and ChatGPT Enterprise. However, what does this mean for the millions of free users? Will we ever get a chance to experience the advanced voice mode of ChatGPT?

According to the latest announcement from the company, ChatGPT Voice is not yet available for EU member countries.

In a related matter, Meta has restricted access to its Apple Intelligence services for users in France. Sam Altman has mentioned that additional testing is required before ChatGPT can launch in France, primarily to comply with European data protection regulations.

Using a VPN: The Key to Access

How do companies like Apple and OpenAI identify users? They rely on two main technologies for this purpose. Apple, with its recent launch of Apple Intelligence, uses GPS location services. Therefore, individuals residing in France or anywhere in the EU will not be able to access the AI capabilities of the iPhone 16.

On the other hand, OpenAI identifies users based on their IP addresses. Fortunately, this opens up an opportunity for those wanting to bypass the restriction. The solution? Using a VPN.

You can choose from various VPN services like ExpressVPN, Proton VPN, or NordVPN. However, even with the most advanced VPN, there’s a chance you might encounter difficulties connecting to ChatGPT Voice.

Recently, I received fantastic news from a friend who finally gained access to the advanced voice feature, and he described it as absolutely incredible! Unfortunately, it’s not yet available in Europe, but he discovered a method to unlock this feature.

Clearing Cache for Improved Connectivity

If you do manage to connect via a VPN, I recommend clearing the ChatGPT cache before reconnecting. This can easily be done by deleting your browser’s cached data on PC or through the app settings if you’re using the mobile version.

It’s important to note that even with a VPN, accessing ChatGPT Voice requires a paid subscription. You will need to sign up for the ChatGPT Plus plan, which costs around $20 per month.

Moreover, the VPN method might not work effectively on Mac devices, potentially due to location identification issues. When selecting a VPN, feel free to choose one that best meets your needs. Personally, I had success with ExpressVPN during my tests.

A handy tip: select the United States as your VPN destination. OpenAI has fully rolled out all features of ChatGPT, including the advanced voice mode, in the U.S.

Testing Your Access to ChatGPT Voice

Once your VPN is set up, it’s time to check if the advanced voice mode of ChatGPT is accessible.

If you are using the mobile app, simply open it. If your access has been granted, you should receive a notification confirming your eligibility for ChatGPT Voice.

If not, verify manually from the left sidebar by clicking on your name and signing out before logging back in with your VPN activated.

At this stage, the interface should change, replacing the small headset icon with a button featuring sound waves, indicating that ChatGPT Voice is ready for use.

Don’t worry; even though OpenAI’s demos may be in English, ChatGPT Voice supports French as well.

Be mindful that the voice may have a slight accent, but the key takeaway is that you now have access, even despite the geographical restrictions imposed by OpenAI.

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