OpenAI Unveils Deep Research AI Tool Transforming Digital Inquiry in Minutes

OpenAI has introduced a cutting-edge AI tool designed to perform time-consuming online research tasks, ranging from complex scientific inquiries to car recommendations. This innovative tool expands the company's suite of AI agents, promising enhanced efficiency in diverse domains.

In a recent blog post, OpenAI revealed that this tool, named “Deep Research,” will be accessible through its ChatGPT chatbot for select paying clients. Capable of searching online text, images, PDF files, and user-uploaded documents, the tool can generate comprehensive reports based on user directives. OpenAI likens its functionality to that of a research analyst, highlighting its ability to complete tasks in mere "minutes" that would typically require "hours" from a human.

Deep Research marks OpenAI's second AI Agent release this year, following last month's introduction of “Operator,” which aids users with tasks like flight booking and grocery planning. Both services are currently available exclusively to users who subscribe to OpenAI's latest ChatGPT Pro option at $200 per month.

The launch of these tools reflects a broader industry shift towards agents—AI software capable of executing multi-step tasks with minimal supervision. Competitors, including Microsoft-supported Anthropic, have also rolled out agent software, as numerous startups join the trend. These companies aim to deliver on AI's long-standing promise to enhance productivity by saving users time on personal and professional tasks.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has previously stated that agents represent AI's "next major breakthrough." With Chinese firms like DeepSeek rapidly emerging, intensifying competition with top American AI developers such as OpenAI, the landscape is becoming increasingly competitive.

However, OpenAI cautions that “Deep Research” is still in its early stages and may sometimes mistake fictional content for factual information, posing challenges in discerning rumors from accurate data. Moreover, the tool is "computationally expensive," limiting initial users to 100 queries per month.

Looking ahead, OpenAI intends to expand this service to other paying clients, including those subscribing to Plus, Team, and Enterprise options, though a specific timeline has not yet been announced.