OpenAI has announced that the ChatGPT search feature is now available to all users without the need to register or log in. This update, effective February 5, 2025, allows everyone to use ChatGPT’s search capabilities directly via chatgpt.com or through mobile and desktop apps. Previously, this feature was available only to paid subscribers since October 2024, and later to registered free users in December 2024.
The search functionality integrates information from the internet with conversational AI capabilities, providing answers supported by links to reliable sources. Users can also manually initiate a web search via a dedicated button. The update has made the interface more similar to traditional search engines, including maps, images, and brief descriptions of results.
This development aligns with OpenAI’s broader strategy to expand AI accessibility and compete in the growing AI-driven search market. It also follows other recent OpenAI launches. The lack of login requirements may attract privacy-conscious users and those seeking instant, barrier-free access.
Despite ChatGPT’s growing popularity, experts note that Google’s dominance in online search remains a significant challenge for any competitor. However, OpenAI aims to broaden its audience and position ChatGPT as a rival to search engines like Google and Bing.
