SearchGPT: The Next Big Thing in AI Search Technology

OpenAI has introduced a new search tool called SearchGPT. This innovative prototype is designed to change how we search for information online by combining artificial intelligence (AI) with traditional web search.

A New Way to Search

OpenAI’s SearchGPT represents a big step forward in search technology. It uses powerful AI models to provide quick and accurate answers, complete with relevant sources. Announced on July 25, 2024, SearchGPT is described as a “temporary prototype” aimed at perfecting these features before they are added to ChatGPT in the future.

How Does SearchGPT Work?

Using SearchGPT is simple but highly effective. When you enter a query, the AI processes it and gives you an answer that includes links to relevant sources right in the text. Extra related results are shown in a sidebar for more information. This setup combines the accuracy of AI with the broad reach of web search, ensuring you get the best information quickly. 

We’re testing SearchGPT, a temporary prototype of new AI search features that give you fast and timely answers with clear and relevant sources.

We’re launching with a small group of users for feedback and plan to integrate the experience into ChatGPT. https://t.co/dRRnxXVlGh pic.twitter.com/iQpADXmllH

— OpenAI (@OpenAI) July 25, 2024

User Experience

The SearchGPT interface looks similar to the existing GPT-4o browse mode but offers some improvements. 

You start by typing your question into a search box. For example, if you search for “music festivals in Boone, NC, in August 2024” or “best tomatoes to grow in Minnesota,” SearchGPT will give you detailed answers with links to sources and additional results in the sidebar. This design makes it easy to find and explore information.

OpenAI spokesperson Kayla Wood tells The Verge that the GPT-4 family of models powers the service and will only be accessible to 10,000 test users at launch. Wood also noted that OpenAI is working with third-party partners and using direct content feeds to build its search results.

Benefits for Publishers

One exciting feature of SearchGPT is its tools for publishers. These tools let publishers control how their content appears in SearchGPT’s results. Importantly, this feature is separate from OpenAI’s AI training, so websites can show up in search results even if they choose not to contribute to AI training data.

Future Improvements: Local and Commercial Searches

OpenAI has big plans for SearchGPT, including better searches for local information and commercial interests. This means SearchGPT will not only help with general queries but also with more specific local needs, potentially changing how we find information about nearby events and businesses.

How to Get Access

OpenAI has opened a waitlist for those eager to try SearchGPT. While this initial launch is limited, it offers a unique chance for early users to help shape the development of this innovative search tool.

OpenAI’s Search Journey

OpenAI’s journey toward creating a search product has been closely watched since February 2024. After initial rumors in May, confirmation came this month from The Atlantic CEO. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has made it clear that their goal is not to copy Google Search but to create a unique search experience that combines large language models (LLMs) with search functions without overwhelming users with ads.

What This Means for the Future

The launch of SearchGPT could greatly impact the search engine market. By integrating AI with search, OpenAI could challenge Google’s dominance, offering a more user-friendly alternative focused on efficiency rather than advertising revenue. This could push other tech companies to improve their search technologies, making the market more competitive and better for users.

Advice for Users and Publishers

SearchGPT means getting faster, more accurate search results with clear, relevant sources for users. This can greatly improve research and information-gathering. For publishers, using SearchGPT offers a chance to reach a wider audience while keeping control over how their content is shown. Publishers should learn how to use OpenAI’s new management tools to make the most of their content’s visibility in SearchGPT results.

Key Takeaways

• OpenAI has introduced SearchGPT, a prototype search tool that combines AI with web search, available to 10,000 users and publishers.
• SearchGPT offers quick, accurate answers with source links and additional sidebar results, making searches more efficient.
• New tools allow publishers to control how their content appears in search results, independent of AI training data.