ChatGPT is essentially becoming an AI-powered search engine, integrating web search directly into its interface. The search is based on a “mix of search technologies,” which includes Microsoft Bing. Paid users can already use the feature, while free, corporate, and educational users will get access in the coming weeks. This allows ChatGPT to close the gap in competition with Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini, which have long provided real-time search in their AI chats.
The web search feature allows users to get up-to-date answers with links to relevant sources. Users can start a search manually, or ChatGPT will do it automatically depending on the query. “We’re working very closely with all our partners to understand how to use this content responsibly and help achieve great results for publishers,” said Adam Fry, head of ChatGPT search.
The new functionality will be available on all ChatGPT platforms: iOS, Android, and apps for macOS and Windows.
