ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an advanced conversational AI chatbot developed by OpenAI that can understand and generate human-like text. It helps users answer questions, create content, and solve problems across a wide range of topics using natural language. Faculty and staff are able to purchase licenses for ChatGPT through a departmental purchase at the Webstore.

ChatGPT is a standalone service provided by OpenAI, and the purchasable license does not include access the OpenAI API or Sora. ChatGPT itself does not have an API itself, and must be accessed through the chatbot interface at https://chatgpt.com/

OpenAI API

The OpenAI API allows software developers to leverage OpenAI generative AI models for use within their custom applications. The costs associated with using the API are governed by credits which are purchased separately from a ChatGPT license. 

The WebStore is currently unable to sell these credits, and using the OpenAI API is not covered by campus agreements or campus data protections (even when used with accounts created with @illinois.edu email addresses). Alternative access to the OpenAI API is available to Illinois users through a Microsoft Azure subscription; reach out to azure-support@illinois.edu to get started.

Sora

Sora is an OpenAI model which creates videos and images from text prompts. The WebStore is currently unable to provide a license for Sora, and any personal accounts (including those created with @illinois.edu email addresses) using Sora are not covered by campus agreements or campus data protections.