OpenAI has quietly introduced a new privacy feature for the ChatGPT mobile app on Android and iOS. Users can now disable the “Background Conversations” feature, which runs in the background even when the app is closed. Redditors were the first to spot this new setting, which appeared in the Voice Mode section of ChatGPT settings.
The description of Voice Mode suggests that it keeps the conversation going in other apps or when the screen is off. This raises concerns about whether ChatGPT with Voice Mode is actively listening or tracking user behavior on other apps. OpenAI has not provided clarification on this matter.
Voice Mode has been available as a feature since September of last year but was recently integrated into one model with the launch of GPT-4o. This update brought attention to the voices used, including one that sounded similar to Scarlett Johansson’s character in the movie “Her.” OpenAI has since removed this voice after Johansson threatened legal action.
Furthermore, there are reports of OpenAI partnering with Apple for ChatGPT integration in iOS 18. It remains unclear whether the app’s voice mode and its potential tracking of app behavior are connected to a rumored Siri revamp or part of the alleged partnership.
For users who want to disable Background Conversations, the setting can be found in the ChatGPT settings on Android and iOS. However, it seems to be a gradual rollout, as not all users have reported seeing this option yet. To turn off Background Conversations, simply toggle off the setting in the Voice Mode section of the app’s settings.
In conclusion, OpenAI’s introduction of the ability to disable Background Conversations in the ChatGPT mobile app provides users with increased privacy control. This new feature addresses concerns about potential tracking and listening capabilities while using other apps or when the screen is off. By allowing users to toggle off this setting, OpenAI is giving them more agency over their data and interactions with the app.
