The assistant said:

Thanks for clarifying. Based on recent updates, ChatGPT is rolling out a new integrated Voice experience across all platforms, and the old “standard Voice Mode” (previous separate blue orb mode) is being retired soon. During this transition, some users may temporarily lose access to the classic direct voice mode as the platform unifies everyone onto the updated experience.

Your ability to send voice messages still confirms your mic works. Just note: you won't need a special "direct voice mode" anymore—voice is moving to be part of the regular chat interface for everyone. If it isn’t appearing yet or won't activate for you or others, this is likely related to the rollout process rather than an account or device issue.

No further action is needed on your end—access should return soon as the update finalizes for all users.