a16z-backed Character.AI announced that it now allows users to talk to AI characters over calls. This feature supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.
The startup tested the calling feature ahead of today’s public launch, during which over 3 million users made more than 20 million calls. Character.AI noted that calls with AI characters can be useful for practicing language skills, conducting mock interviews, or enhancing role-playing games.
Users can initiate calls with a user-generated AI character directly with a tap of a button. Character.AI designed this feature to provide a smooth calling experience with reduced latency. Users can switch between calling and texting seamlessly and can stop the AI from talking using a “Tap to interrupt” option.
In March, Character.AI launched Character Voices, allowing users to hear the characters speak in one-on-one chats. With the feature enabling users to create their own voices, the app’s library now contains over 1 million voices.