OpenAI's ChatGPT, challenges Google's dominance, offers free internet search in real-time

OpenAI has launched its ChatGPT-powered internet search feature for all users, expanding access that was previously limited to paying subscribers.

This move directly challenges Google’s strong position in the search engine market. Now, all logged-in ChatGPT users, including those on the free plan, can use this feature to receive quick, real-time answers supported by links to relevant web sources. This upgrade turns ChatGPT into a tool for dynamic, live searches.

The new search capability is part of OpenAI’s broader goal to enhance ChatGPT’s functionality. Users can now obtain up-to-date information from the internet directly through the AI chatbot.

Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s chief product officer, confirmed that this feature is available worldwide on all platforms where ChatGPT operates.

The interface resembles traditional search engines like Google and Google Maps, but without ads, offering a cleaner experience.

Unlike Google, OpenAI’s search feature allows users to get direct answers without needing to visit external sites, while still citing the sources used. This makes ChatGPT an interactive and conversational alternative to traditional search engines, similar to platforms like Perplexity that also provide web-based answers in a user-friendly format.

This rollout is a strategic step for OpenAI to grow its share in the search market, raising questions about its collaboration with Microsoft, a key investor.

Microsoft has been promoting its Bing search engine and AI features in its competition with Google. With this new functionality, OpenAI is increasing its use of computational resources, intensifying the competition with Google in the search domain.