OpenAI has announced that ChatGPT Search is now available to all free users. Initially rolled out in October 2024 for paid subscribers, the feature was previously offered through an invitation-only preview called SearchGPT. With this update, OpenAI has made ChatGPT Search publicly accessible, enhancing the user experience.
ChatGPT Search Features
ChatGPT Search allows users to receive fast, up-to-date answers along with links to relevant web sources, a feature traditionally handled by search engines.
OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, Kevin Weil, shared the update in a YouTube video, emphasizing the benefit of real-time web information within the AI chatbot.
In this updated version, prominent links, such as those from Netflix or travel booking websites, now appear at the top of search results, followed by text-based responses from ChatGPT.
Voice Search Integration
A major update is the introduction of voice search for users who have Advanced Voice Mode enabled. This feature can be activated by tapping the audio waveform button in the compose bar.
Voice search enables users to request real-time information on various topics, such as travel destinations, weather forecasts, or activity suggestions. ChatGPT’s Voice Assistant will respond using one of the ten available voice styles.
Mobile App Enhancements
The update also includes improvements for mobile users. The iOS and Android versions of ChatGPT now integrate with the respective map apps on these devices (Apple Maps and Google Maps). For example, if you search for nearby restaurants, the results will appear directly on the map.
Search Engine Integration
For users who set ChatGPT as their default search engine, OpenAI has made browsing faster and more efficient. Additionally, the company has released a Chrome extension that allows users to set ChatGPT as their default search engine for instant answers sourced from trusted websites.
Availability
ChatGPT Search is now available to all users logged into their accounts on the mobile apps and website. The Advanced Voice Search feature will be gradually rolled out over the next week.