Hajra Naz
OpenAI has made its internet search feature, powered by ChatGPT, available to all logged-in users, taking a major step in competing with Google. Initially launched in late October for paid subscribers, this feature now allows all ChatGPT users to get “fast, timely answers” along with links to relevant web sources, reducing the reliance on traditional search engines.
Global Rollout for Logged-In Users
The upgrade was revealed by Kevin Weil, Chief Product Officer of OpenAI:
“We’re bringing search to all logged-in free users of ChatGPT.” This implies that it will be accessible everywhere you use ChatGPT.
The feature delivers real-time information from across the web, a significant upgrade from ChatGPT’s earlier limitation of relying on pre-existing data with a cutoff date.
Enhanced User Experience with Real-Time Information
Adam Fry, ChatGPT Search product lead, shared how the feature improves the platform:
“We’re just making the ChatGPT experience that you know better with up-to-date information from the web.”
The updated interface resembles Google search results, minus the distractions of advertisements. It also adopts a conversational style similar to AI-driven search engines like Perplexity, providing answers alongside referenced sources.
Seamless Integration with ChatGPT
Instead of releasing a distinct product, OpenAI has integrated the search feature straight into the current ChatGPT platform. Users can enable the feature by default or activate it through a web search icon.
A Growing Competition with Google
This move makes the competition between OpenAI and Google even stronger, as both companies are trying to lead the search engine market. With support from big investors like Microsoft, OpenAI is ready to challenge Google’s long-standing position.
Microsoft’s Role and Potential Implications
The update also raises questions about OpenAI’s connection with Microsoft, its main investor. Microsoft has been improving its Bing search engine with AI, making it a direct competitor to Google. OpenAI’s new feature could attract millions of users, increasing operational costs and computing demands as the company scales up.
A Global Rollout for Millions of Users
“We’re rolling this out to hundreds of millions of users, starting today,” Fry confirmed, highlighting the global reach and significance of this update.
By bringing search capabilities to all users, OpenAI is not just enhancing ChatGPT but also positioning itself as a strong contender in the evolving search engine market.
