OpenAI's ChatGPT Challenges Google with New Integrated Search Feature
OpenAI has taken a substantial step into the search domain by integrating search capabilities into its ChatGPT platform, positioning itself in direct competition with Google, the current leader in this field. On October 31, OpenAI announced the new search feature on ChatGPT, which allows users to obtain quick and timely answers directly within the app without needing to rely on separate search engines. This move marks a significant development as it also challenges Microsoft, OpenAI's notable backer, in its own search ventures.
The search functionality is now available on the ChatGPT website and through its desktop and mobile applications. Initially, the feature is accessible to subscribers of the paid ChatGPT Plus and Team editions, as well as those previously enrolled in the SearchGPT prototype. OpenAI plans a phased rollout to Enterprise and Edu users in the coming weeks, ultimately making it available to all users within the next few months.
Powered by a fine-tuned version of OpenAI’s flagship AI model, GPT-4o, the search function uses innovative synthetic data generation techniques and builds upon outputs from the o1-preview inference model released in September. This new feature retrieves information through third-party search providers and partners, enabling ChatGPT to deliver comprehensive answers to user queries.
The addition of search capabilities allows ChatGPT to provide updates on the latest sports scores, stock prices, news, and weather. OpenAI highlights that users can now engage in more natural conversations with ChatGPT to extract desired information, as it intelligently incorporates web data to formulate responses. Emphasizing context, ChatGPT considers the entirety of the conversation to enhance the relevance and accuracy of provided answers.