OpenAI launches ChatGPT Search, posing a new challenge to Google

OpenAI recently launched a new feature called ChatGPT Search, aiming to allow users to search for information in real-time as they would on the internet, seen as a direct challenge to Google.

ChatGPT Search Focuses on "Searchable Real-Time Information"

OpenAI launched a new feature, ChatGPT Search, on October 31, an evolution of the prototype SearchGPT introduced in July 2023. Initially, SearchGPT and ChatGPT applications operated separately and were only available for testing to a select few.

The highlight of ChatGPT Search is the ability to search for "real-time information," with responses including citations to news publishers and other data sources embedded within the replies, allowing users to see the source or reference information.

ChatGPT Search will first be available to ChatGPT Plus and Team paid users, covering mobile and web versions. Business and educational customers will gain access in the coming weeks, while free users may have to wait a few months. The goal is to eventually provide a similar AI search experience to 250 million users weekly.

Optimizing the "Interactive Inquiry" Experience, Quickly Integrating Data

Varun Shetty, OpenAI's media lead, stated that when users search for questions online, they often need to search multiple times or click through various links to find answers. Shetty added that using "interactive inquiry" along with relevant background information and high-quality sources can enhance the search experience.

In a demo, the OpenAI team used ChatGPT Search to look up weekend activities in San Francisco, and ChatGPT promptly compiled a list of activities from local news websites. They then inquired about recommended restaurants, and ChatGPT even displayed a culinary map of local restaurants, making the information sources and previews more prominent.

Collaborating with Multiple Authoritative Media to Ensure Diverse Information Sources

To launch ChatGPT Search, OpenAI also partnered with several media companies, including News Corp., Axel Springer SE, TIME, and Le Monde. These collaborations enable 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 preference for media publishers the company collaborates with. ChatGPT Search is not limited to hard news; it can provide more diverse information, catering to those seeking beyond traditional news reports.

Note: News Corp. is a large U.S. media company, with The Wall Street Journal as a prominent publication under its umbrella. Axel Springer SE is a major European publisher, known for Bild. Le Monde is a French newspaper, and TIME is a well-known magazine.

"Generating Incorrect Answers" Remains a Classic Issue, AI Industry Continues to Strive

However, like all generative AI products, OpenAI's AI search tool is not immune to the risk of generating incorrect answers. According to a report, discrepancies were noted in a demo video of SearchGPT released by OpenAI in July, where the date of a particular holiday was inaccurately provided. Providing accurate information, especially during the nearing U.S. elections, is crucial for OpenAI and its competitors.

OpenAI stated that starting from election day, whenever users query ChatGPT about election results, a message will prompt them to check news sources like the Associated Press and Reuters, as well as information from the user's state or local election commission, to ensure users receive more accurate election information.

OpenAI's Future Vision, Global Expansion, and Introduction of Advertising Exploration

Recently, Sarah Friar, OpenAI's CFO, mentioned during an interview at the Money 20/20 conference that the goal is to ensure more people globally have access to AI tools. In addition to the "searchable real-time information" feature highlighted in ChatGPT Search, OpenAI will soon start integrating commercial advertisements to meet diverse user needs and increase profitability.

OpenAI CFO: AI is no longer experimental, embraced by major banks like JPMorgan Chase and BBVA.