OpenAI Introduces Search Functions in ChatGPT, Threatening Google’s Stronghold

OpenAI has launched a new search function within its widely-used AI chatbot, ChatGPT. 

This will increase OpenAI’s competition, adding online search which has long been held by Google and is now contested by Microsoft’s Bing and other emerging platforms.

The new functionality allows ChatGPT to perform web searches based on user queries, delivering timely responses alongside relevant links. 

According to OpenAI, this integrated search feature utilises data from third-party providers and content partnerships to curate information that meets users’ needs. 

The company stated in a recent blog post, “ChatGPT search leverages third-party search providers, as well as content provided directly by our partners, to provide the information users are looking for.”

The search enhancements are built on a refined version of GPT-4, with immediate availability for ChatGPT Plus and Team subscribers. 

OpenAI has plans to extend this feature to enterprise and educational clients in the coming weeks, with free users receiving access in stages over the next few months.

OpenAI has formed partnerships with top media organisations, including Condé Nast, Time magazine, the Financial Times, Axel Springer, Le Monde, and Prisa Media. The goal is to refine the search feature through direct feedback from these publishers. 

Importantly, any publisher has the option to be included in the search results, enhancing the breadth of content available to users.

The development follows OpenAI’s earlier prototype, SearchGPT, which provided limited real-time search capabilities. In enhancing ChatGPT’s search functions, OpenAI seeks to compete more effectively with industry leaders while capitalising on recent investments.

In a noteworthy funding round earlier this month, OpenAI secured $6.6 billion, propelling its valuation to approximately $157 billion. This investment cements its status as one of the most valuable private technology companies globally. 

The funding, led by Thrive Capital and including contributions from established investors such as Microsoft and Nvidia, points to the strong investor confidence in OpenAI’s growth trajectory and ongoing innovation in AI.

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