OpenAI has recently unveiled SearchGPT, a one-of-a-kind AI-powered search engine that offers real-time access to internet information.
Unlike conventional search engines, SearchGPT initiates with a user query in a spacious textbox, prompting, ‘What are you seeking?’ Instead of a plain list of links, the engine arranges and contextualizes data.
It provides summaries on diverse topics, such as music festivals or gardening tips, delivering concise event descriptions with attribution links.
SearchGPT, currently in its prototype phase, will initially be available to 10,000 test users. It harnesses the advanced capabilities of the GPT-4 model family, collaborates with third-party partners, and uses direct content feeds to build search results. The exciting long-term goal is to seamlessly integrate these features into ChatGPT, promising even more advanced functionalities in the future.
This launch puts OpenAI in direct competition with major players like Google, which has rapidly integrated AI features into its search capabilities. It also challenges startups like Perplexity, known for its AI “answer” engine but recently criticized for content use issues.
OpenAI has placed a strong emphasis on transparency and collaboration with news partners, including major media entities. This collaboration is aimed at addressing content attribution and accuracy concerns. Publishers can manage their content visibility within SearchGPT, controlling how their materials are used without compromising their inclusion in search results. This reassures the audience of the responsible use of information.
Despite the substantial costs associated with maintaining AI technologies, OpenAI plans to offer SearchGPT free of charge, signalling future monetization strategies as the service evolves.
Overall, SearchGPT represents OpenAI’s ambitious step into enhancing search functionalities through AI. It aims to provide users with reliable, contextualized information while navigating the complexities of content usage and technological innovation in the digital age.
