Full-duplex realtime audio APIs enabled low-latency call centers and spoken assistants with tool use.
In 2024, OpenAI and others launched full-duplex low-latency voice capabilities integrable with telephony and apps.
Pilot enterprises automated support; issues of recording consent, impersonation, and accessibility emerged.
Voice revived everyday Turing-test debates: many users judge “intelligence” by conversational fluency.
On September 10, 2026, OpenAI introduced GPT-Live-1 in the API: a full-duplex voice layer at about $0.05 per minute, with ~80% fewer interruptions on the Speak eval versus classic turn-taking. It pairs with GPT-6 Astra and underpins OpenAI Presence for enterprise voice agents.
On September 10, 2026, alongside GPT-Live-1, OpenAI introduced Presence: trusted enterprise voice agents that answer, resolve, use company systems, take approved actions, and escalate to humans. It is built on the GPT-Live-1 full-duplex layer. Source: the same OpenAI GPT-Live-1 API post.
Google introduced on 15 September 2026 (updated 17) Gemini 3.8 Live and Live Extended Thinking: speech-to-speech models with Artificial Analysis 82.6, τ-Voice 68.6%, and τ-Voice-banking 35.1%, aimed at voice agents.