OpenAI’s recent launch of ChatGPT Search is making waves. Released on October 31, this tool could revolutionise how we gather information online. Here’s a breakdown of what ChatGPT Search does and why it’s a game-changer for online searches.
Article Highlights
What is ChatGPT Search?
ChatGPT Search is a new feature from OpenAI that gives users real-time answers. Instead of showing a list of links, it pulls up relevant information directly and provides links to sources. It’s currently available to ChatGPT Plus, Teams, and waitlist users, and OpenAI plans to make it free for all soon. ChatGPT Search works on mobile, desktop, and the ChatGPT website, making it accessible anywhere.
How Could ChatGPT Search Impact Google?
Image credit: OpenAI’s DALL·E
Many wonder if ChatGPT Search might challenge traditional search engines. Since ChatGPT offers instant answers, it reduces the need to browse multiple sites, which could decrease ad views and clicks. Google relies heavily on ads for revenue—over $300 billion—and a shift toward direct answers from AI could affect this model.
With ChatGPT’s 200 million weekly users, adding search functionality could boost its popularity even further. Although Google holds nearly 90% of the search market, ChatGPT’s new feature could start to reshape the landscape.
Other AI Tools are Joining the Race
OpenAI isn’t the only player in AI search. Google, Microsoft, and Meta are also exploring AI-driven tools that deliver real-time search answers. Google’s Gemini, Microsoft’s Bing Chat, and other emerging platforms are bringing AI-powered search to users, signalling a new era of quick, accurate answers from AI.
Is AI Search Reliable?
AI search comes with questions about safety and reliability. Combining AI with real-time data can lead to issues like biases or inaccuracies. OpenAI has noted that ChatGPT may share limited user data, such as location, with partners like Bing. Finding the balance between user privacy and providing real-time answers is an ongoing challenge.
The Next Step: AI Agents to Simplify Tasks
The future of AI search isn’t just about getting answers; it’s also about helping users complete tasks. Google’s Project Jarvis and OpenAI’s “agents” are designed to perform actions like navigating websites or shopping. These agents can also remember details, like dietary preferences or travel plans, to offer a more personalised experience.
While ChatGPT Search doesn’t currently use this memory feature, OpenAI plans to add it soon, making searches even more personalised.
Trusted Information Sources for Accurate Answers
To improve reliability, OpenAI has partnered with respected news organisations like Reuters, the Financial Times, and Le Monde. ChatGPT’s search now draws from these trusted sources, making answers more reliable.
Natural language processing expert Suzan Verberne says this approach adds value to ChatGPT’s search tool. With information from reputable sources, ChatGPT can offer more accurate results, and users can ask follow-up questions to dive deeper.
The Future of Search Starts Here
ChatGPT Search is paving the way for a new kind of online search. By focusing on quick answers, it shifts our habits from browsing to direct information retrieval. Whether you’re checking the weather, finding stock info, or reading the latest news, ChatGPT Search could become a go-to tool.
With AI advancing quickly, ChatGPT Search is leading us toward a faster, simpler, and more tailored way to find information.
Click here to explore ChatGPT Search!
Stay tuned—this is just the beginning of a new era in search!
