OpenAI, the organization behind the widely used ChatGPT platform, has recently encountered a major global outage affecting its services. This disruption began early on December 12, 2024, with numerous users reporting issues when attempting to access ChatGPT.
Understanding the Outage
Around 5 AM IST, users began experiencing difficulties with ChatGPT, facing an error message stating: ‘ChatGPT is currently unavailable. Status: Identified – We have identified the issue and are working to roll out a fix.’ This outage extends beyond just one service, impacting OpenAI’s API and the recently launched Sora video generation tool.
The Numbers Speak
Data from DownDetector.com revealed that over 2,400 reports were submitted soon after the outage began, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem within the OpenAI ecosystem.
OpenAI’s Response to Users
OpenAI has acknowledged the issues on their status page, confirming the errors users have reported when attempting to use the API and logging into their accounts. Communication via X (formerly Twitter) expressed regret for the inconvenience, asserting: ‘We’re experiencing an outage right now. We have identified the issue and are working to roll out a fix. Sorry, and we’ll keep you updated!’ However, the company has not provided a specific timeline for when services will be restored.
Impact on Users
This outage has sparked significant frustration among users. Feedback on social media reflects dissatisfaction, with many expressing concerns about the reliability of the service. Posts included comments such as: ‘I’m a GPT Pro subscriber. I’m having problems with my acc… can you help?’ and frustrated exclamations like: ‘#chatgptdown again. What’s going on??’
A Broader Context
The current outage comes at a crucial time for OpenAI. Earlier this month, CEO Sam Altman announced impressive engagement metrics, boasting 300 million active users weekly, and the company recently achieved a valuation of $157 billion in a funding round involving major investors like Microsoft and Nvidia.
Anticipating the Future
The timing of this disruption is regrettable for OpenAI, especially as they had just announced improved features in collaboration with Apple, allowing new integrations with Siri. For now, users must wait as OpenAI works on technical resolutions. In the meantime, turning to traditional methods of information gathering might be in order.
