ChatGPT integrates web search to compete with Copilot, Gemini
- Writer: info@mps-asia.com at
- Tech news
According to the AI technology company OpenAI, with the integration of web search capabilities, ChatGPT is now positioned to compete with rivals like Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. Users who subscribe to the ChatGPT Plus plan or are on the SearchGPT waitlist can access real-time information within conversations.
ChatGPT isn’t designed as a standalone search product; instead, search functionality is embedded within ChatGPT’s existing interface. Users can manually activate web search when needed or allow the AI chatbot to automatically decide when to use this feature.
Adam Fry, head of ChatGPT’s search team, demonstrated this feature in a pre-launch presentation by searching for Apple’s stock price and related information. The chatbot promptly displayed an interactive stock chart along with recent news articles from various sources.
According to OpenAI, the search feature will be available across all ChatGPT platforms, including iOS, Android, and desktop applications.
Previously, ChatGPT’s knowledge was limited to data from either 2021 or 2023, depending on the model version. With the Bing-powered search feature, ChatGPT users can now receive instant answers and direct links to reliable sources.
OpenAI spokesperson Niko Felix stated that the company will continue updating the training data for its AI models to ensure users receive the latest information. However, these updates are not trained simultaneously with OpenAI’s core model.
OpenAI collaborates with major content partners like Associated Press, Reuters, Times, and News Corp, ensuring ChatGPT provides vetted and reliable information. Adam Fry highlighted that ChatGPT currently has no ads, which is a notable advantage over Google.
Despite this, the operational costs of AI-driven search are significantly higher than traditional search, and how OpenAI plans to sustain free access for users remains unanswered.
As more tech giants join the AI search field, Google recently expanded its AI Overview feature to over 100 countries, while Meta is also working on its AI search solution.