OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Search, Challenging Google’s Dominance

OpenAI has officially launched its highly anticipated ChatGPT search feature, marking a significant step into the AI search market and posing a potential challenge to Google‘s long-standing search monopoly. This new capability allows users to search the web directly through the ChatGPT interface, blending the benefits of natural language interaction with the value of up-to-date information such as sports scores, news, and stock quotes.

The ChatGPT search feature is initially available to ChatGPT Plus and Team users, as well as those on the SearchGPT waitlist. It will be rolled out to free users over the coming months. Users can access this feature on the ChatGPT website, as well as through the desktop and mobile apps.

One of the key differentiators of ChatGPT search is its user experience, which includes fewer search features and no ads. The search results are integrated seamlessly into the chat interface, allowing users to engage with information in a more conversational manner. For instance, users can ask follow-up questions, and ChatGPT will consider the full context of the chat to provide more accurate answers.

OpenAI has also introduced a “Sources” button that allows users to view the original sources of the information provided. This feature opens a sidebar with links to relevant web sources, such as news articles and blog posts, enhancing transparency and credibility.

The search model is a fine-tuned version of GPT-4, leveraging novel synthetic data generation techniques and content provided by third-party search providers and direct partners. OpenAI has collaborated extensively with the news industry, including major publishers like Associated Press, Axel Springer, and Reuters, to ensure high-quality content is integrated into the search results.

While it is too early to determine the full impact of ChatGPT search on Google, the new feature has already shown promise in sending more referral traffic to brands compared to other AI engines like Perplexity and Claude. OpenAI plans to continue improving the search functionality, particularly in areas such as shopping and travel, and to expand its availability to more users in the future.