OpenAI recently launched a new feature for ChatGPT, aimed at allowing users to search for information in real time, akin to online searches, which is seen as a direct challenge to Google.
ChatGPT Search Highlights “Real-Time Searchable Information”
On October 31, OpenAI introduced the new feature ChatGPT Search, which is an evolved version of the prototype SearchGPT released in July 2023. At that time, SearchGPT operated separately from the ChatGPT application and was available only to a select group for testing. The new feature of ChatGPT Search emphasizes “real-time searchable information,” and responses will include citations from news publishers and other data sources embedded within the replies, allowing users to see the sources or references.
ChatGPT Search will initially be available to ChatGPT Plus and Team paid users, covering both mobile and web versions. Enterprise and educational customers will gain access in the coming weeks, while free users will need to wait a few months, with hopes of reaching 250 million users weekly for a similar AI search experience in the future.
“Conversational Query” Optimizes Experience and Quickly Integrates Data
OpenAI’s media director Varun Shetty stated that when users search for questions online, they often have to search multiple times or click on several links to find answers. Shetty added that using “conversational queries” along with relevant background information and high-quality sources would enhance the search experience. During a demonstration of the feature, the OpenAI team used ChatGPT Search to look up weekend activities in San Francisco, and ChatGPT quickly compiled a list of events from local news websites. Following that, when asked for restaurant recommendations, ChatGPT displayed a food map of local eateries, making the sources of information and previews more apparent.
Collaborating with Multiple Authoritative Media to Ensure Diverse Information Sources
To launch ChatGPT Search, OpenAI has collaborated with several media companies, including News Corp., Axel Springer SE, TIME, and Le Monde. These partnerships allow OpenAI to incorporate authoritative and real-time information into ChatGPT Search, adjusting article selection and summary length based on feedback from media partners. Shetty mentioned that any website or publisher can choose to appear in ChatGPT Search, without favoring media publishers that partner with the company. He further noted that ChatGPT Search is not limited to hard news and can provide a wider range of information, hoping it will be particularly useful for those seeking more than just pure news reporting.
“Generating Incorrect Answers” Remains a Classic Problem, AI Companies Must Continue to Improve
However, like all generative AI products, OpenAI cannot escape the risk of its AI search tool generating incorrect answers. Reports indicated that in a pre-recorded demonstration of SearchGPT released in July, an error was pointed out regarding the date of a certain holiday. For OpenAI and its competitors, providing accurate information during the upcoming U.S. elections is of utmost importance. OpenAI also stated that starting from election day, whenever users ask ChatGPT about voting results, a message will encourage them to check news sources such as the Associated Press and Reuters, as well as information from their state or local election commission, to ensure users receive more accurate election information.
OpenAI’s Future Vision: Expanding Globally and Introducing Advertising Exploration
Recently, OpenAI’s CFO Sarah Friar mentioned during an interview at the Money 20/20 conference that the goal is to ensure more people worldwide can access AI tools. In addition to launching ChatGPT Search with a focus on “real-time searchable information,” the company plans to introduce commercial advertising to meet the diverse needs of users while increasing profitability.