OpenAI has made ChatGPT Search accessible to its entire user base, launching multiple new capabilities designed to enhance search functionality. This development transforms how ChatGPT connects with online content, delivering condensed results from diverse web sources, complete with integrated images and YouTube video content.
ChatGPT Search, which debuted in October following OpenAI’s SearchGPT experimental version, utilizes an enhanced variant of OpenAI’s GPT-4o architecture. This tool delivers current web data, spanning from athletic match results to current events, market information, and additional content. The platform enables users to explore source links and pose additional questions to narrow their search parameters.
Initially restricted to subscribers, the search capability now extends to all users, including those on free plans. The system has undergone performance optimization, and users can now implement it as their primary search tool across browsers. The mobile interface has also been upgraded, streamlining access to business information like locations (through Apple Maps integration on iOS) and contact details.
A key highlight of the current upgrade is the introduction of Advanced Voice Mode, enabling users to retrieve current web information through voice interaction with ChatGPT. This functionality works seamlessly across both mobile devices and computers, creating a more comprehensive search experience.
Nevertheless, ChatGPT Search has drawn criticism from content creators. Various publishers worry that AI search platforms like ChatGPT Search might decrease their website visits by providing content summaries without directing traffic to source pages. Research indicates that AI tools such as Google’s AI Overviews could potentially reduce publisher traffic by approximately 25%.
OpenAI has responded to these issues and reports making improvements to ChatGPT Search’s source selection process, content summarization methods, and citation practices. While reactions remain divided, OpenAI maintains its dedication to enhancing this feature, considering it crucial for future development.
