ChatGPT needs your phone number for a few reasons, including:
Why Does ChatGPT Need My Phone Number?
To verify your account and prevent spam: ChatGPT requires phone number verification during signup to ensure that you are a real person and not a bot. This helps to protect the platform from spam and abuse.

To identify you: If you ever need help with your ChatGPT account, OpenAI may need to contact you by phone. Having your phone number on file makes it easier for them to do so.

To collect demographic data: OpenAI may collect demographic data about its users, such as their country of residence and age range. This data is used to improve the ChatGPT experience and make sure that it is relevant to users from all over the world.

To target advertising: OpenAI may use your phone number to target you with advertising. This information is not shared with third parties.

If you are concerned about your privacy, you can choose not to provide your phone number when signing up for ChatGPT. However, doing so may limit your ability to use the platform. For example, you may not be able to create an account or you may not be able to access certain features.

Here are some ways to use ChatGPT without a phone number:

Use a virtual phone number service: There are a number of services that allow you to create a temporary phone number that you can use to verify your account. Once you have verified your account, you can delete the virtual number and your phone number will no longer be associated with your ChatGPT account.

Use a friend's phone number: If you don't have a phone number of your own, you can ask a friend or family member to let you use theirs to verify your account. Once your account is verified, you can delete their phone number from your account.

Use a landline: If you have a landline phone, you can use that number to verify your account. However, keep in mind that landline numbers are not as widely accepted as mobile numbers.

It is important to note that using ChatGPT without a phone number may make you more vulnerable to spam and abuse. If you are concerned about your privacy, you may want to consider using a virtual phone number service or a friend's phone number.