OpenAI unveils SearchGPT, a new AI-powered search engine

OpenAI has unveiled SearchGPT, an AI-powered search engine aimed at competing with Google and Perplexity.

SearchGPT will be available as a prototype in a limited release to 10,000 test users, with plans to eventually integrate it into ChatGPT.

Unlike traditional search engines that return a list of links, SearchGPT organizes and summarizes information. For example, it can provide descriptions of music festivals with attribution links or explain when to plant tomatoes, including details on different varieties. Users can ask follow-up questions or click on a sidebar to explore other relevant links.

A "visual answers" feature is also in development.

Powered by the GPT-4 family of models, SearchGPT aims to provide real-time access to information across the internet. OpenAI has collaborated with third-party partners and used direct content feeds to build its search results. The company emphasizes that it developed SearchGPT in collaboration with news partners such as The Wall Street Journal, The Associated Press, and Vox Media.

Publishers can manage their appearance in OpenAI search features and opt out of having their content used to train OpenAI’s models while still being surfaced in search results. OpenAI ensures responses have clear attribution and links, helping users connect with publishers.