Here's how to use ChatGPT and OpenAI without a phone number

You can use an email address instead of a phone number to create a ChatGPT account
A representational image of ChatGPTs logo. — TechCrunch/File
A representational image of ChatGPT's logo. — TechCrunch/File

ChatGPT is an AI-based tool that can help you in a variety of tasks ranging from creative writing, email writing, and math problem solving to developing software using programming languages.

To use this tool, you need to register yourself using a phone, and a lot of people don't want to add their phone numbers to the app for privacy concerns.

Ways to use ChatGPT without a phone number.

1. Use an email address to use ChatGPT

You can use an email address instead of a phone number to create a ChatGPT account without a number. To do this, you need to download the [ChatGPT Desktop] app on your computer and open it.

Now when it asks for a phone number to register, click on the “Use Email Instead” option at the bottom of the screen and enter your email address.

You will receive a verification code on your email that you need to enter to verify your registration.

After that, you can create a username and password for your ChatGPT account and start chatting with AI agents. You can also sync your ChatGPT account with your mobile device by scanning a QR code on the app.

2. Use a virtual phone number to use ChatGPT

Another option is to use a virtual phone number that works like a regular phone number but is not linked to your SIM card or device. You can get a virtual phone number from various providers, such as Google Voice, Skype, and Vonage.

You need to sign up for these services and choose a virtual phone number that you can use to register on ChatGPT. However, some of these services may charge you a fee.

Using a virtual phone number may limit the features and functionality of the tool. Also, you won't be able to recover your account in case you forget your password. 

Therefore, always be cautious when using ChatGPT and any other app that requires your personal information.

3. Use a temporary phone number to use ChatGPT

In order to sign up for ChatGPT without a number, you can use a service that gives you a temporary phone number.

TextNow, Burner, and Hushed are a few examples of such services. Depending on your device, you can download these apps from the Google Play Store or the App Store.

Then, you can use that temporary phone number to register yourself on ChatGPT by following the instructions in the program to obtain one.

But keep in mind that if you don't use your ChatGPT account frequently, these numbers can be deactivated or recycled after a specified time duration.