OpenAI's new Search feature: SearchGPT Launch — *OpenAI’s new search feature is pre-launching as SearchGPT Prototype*

I am so excited to inform you that ChatGPT has officially announced its latest AI-powered web search engine! On Thursday, October 31, 2024, OpenAI launched SearchGPT to compete directly with major search platforms like Microsoft Bing, Google, and Perplexity.

This innovation transforms ChatGPT into a fully functional search engine, designed to deliver real-time and precise search results.

In July 2024, OpenAI introduced its new search engine prototype, SearchGPT, for beta testing, a launch mostly unknown to the general public. Now, as of this Thursday, the search functionality is officially integrated within ChatGPT and currently available to paid users.

Integration of SearchGPT in ChatGPT Interface

New search feature integrated in ChatGPT — *New search feature integrated into regular ChatGPT for users*

Instead of launching SearchGPT as a standalone product, OpenAI has integrated this feature directly into the ChatGPT interface. This means the AI will trigger web results based on user queries.

Users can also manually activate web search using the search icon below. ChatGPT now delivers real-time internet results, enriching AI conversations like Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot.

SeachGPT will be Available on all AI Platforms

OpenAI’s new search functionality will soon roll out on all ChatGPT platforms, including iOS, Android, and desktop. According to Adam Fry, the search feature leverages multiple search technologies, including Microsoft Bing, to fine-tune GPT-4 for broader search capabilities.

Initially offered as a prototype to 10,000 users, its success has driven OpenAI to expand aggressively, even hiring Google’s search experts.

Launch of AI-Powered Search in ChatGPT

OpenAI's team lead Mr. Adam Fry — *OpenAI’s search lead, Mr. Adam Fry, is showcasing SearchGPT features*

During the pre-launch demo, ChatGPT’s search lead, Adam Fry, showcased SearchGPT by pulling up Apple stock data and relevant news articles with clickable sources and interactive graphs, similar to Google’s query-specific results. This integration allows ChatGPT to present detailed, relevant answers by linking directly to original sources.

Competing in an AI-Powered Search Landscape

OpenAI’s release of SearchGPT comes when many tech giants are exploring AI-driven search engines. Meta is reportedly developing its AI search engine, and Google recently expanded its AI overview feature globally. With Google’s SERP updates, users see AI-generated overviews before organic search results.

Ad-Free Results Interface

SearchGPT prototype new interface — *Ads-free search engine interface by SearchGPT*

Unlike traditional search engines, SearchGPT delivers results without ads, potentially attracting users seeking ad-free experiences.

Google, known for generating significant revenue from ads, may face competition here as ChatGPT aims to maintain an ad-free model. However, free-tier users may have limitations on using the latest SearchGPT model frequently.

Real-Time Information & Competitive Edge

SearchGPT provides up-to-the-minute updates on stocks, sports, weather, and news through real-time web searches and partnerships with data providers. Alphabet investors express concern that this feature could shift market share, offering users a fresh, efficient way to search.

The release positions OpenAI as a strong competitor to Microsoft’s business tools like Copilot and Bing, even though Microsoft has invested approximately $14 billion in OpenAI.

Final Words

OpenAI’s new SearchGPT feature marks a new milestone in AI-powered search, offering ad-free, real-time information on everything from stock updates to sports and weather. With seamless use across various platforms and compatibility with leading search technologies like Bing, it strengthens ChatGPT’s competitive edge. This new feature is poised to reshape how users access information, making it a compelling alternative to traditional search engines like Google and Microsoft Bing.