OpenAI on Monday revealed the implementation of its search engine-based capability to all registered users. Named ChatGPT Search, the capability allows users to discover answers to their inquiries by utilizing contextual information available on the internet, obtained from various websites and blogs. The feature was initially introduced in July when a prototype known as SearchGPT was made available to a limited group of testers. Subsequently, the feature was extended to the paying subscribers of the chatbot in November. Now, the AI company widened the availability of the feature, including users on the platform’s free tier.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search Is Now Accessible Without a Subscription
On the eighth day of the company’s 12-day feature rollout timeline, OpenAI extended ChatGPT Search to all users of the AI chatbot. This web search capability is integrated within the chatbot’s interface and can be activated both manually and automatically. The AI company reportedly developed its own search engine to lessen dependence on external search engines and avoid complications related to web crawling.
When users access ChatGPT, whether through the web or mobile applications, they will notice a new globe icon adjacent to the ‘Attach file’ icon in the text input area. Clicking the icon enables the web search feature, and the AI exclusively gathers data from the web rather than its pretraining and post-training knowledge base. While users can activate it manually, OpenAI emphasized that it will be triggered automatically for pertinent questions.
ChatGPT Search can browse through various websites for a query and synthesize information from all of them to deliver the answer in natural language. The feature also indicates the source of the information in two distinct ways. After each sentence, whenever information is utilized, an icon highlights the specific source. Additionally, the compilation of sources is noted at the bottom of the response.
In a post on X (previously referred to as Twitter), the official OpenAI account also indicated that ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users will also have access to Search with Advanced Voice mode. This will be implemented in the upcoming week.
Furthermore, OpenAI also declared that it is incorporating maps into ChatGPT in the mobile applications. With this, users can search for and discuss local eateries, businesses, and points of interest. The AI company asserted that the information presented on the map will be maintained in a current state.
