Intro
The buzz is growing around OpenAI's imminent launch of a ChatGPT search feature, though the exact launch date remains a mystery. Sources like Bloomberg (subscription required) have reported that OpenAI is developing a web search function for ChatGPT that incorporates citations, allowing users to ask questions and receive answers enriched with details from sources like Wikipedia articles and blog posts.
The anticipated feature could also integrate images into responses where appropriate, such as providing diagrams for questions about tasks like changing a doorknob.
Ambitious Recruitment and Competitive Edge
According to The Verge, OpenAI has been actively recruiting talent from Google, assembling a team focused on quickly delivering this new search feature. Despite Google's extensive expertise in search, OpenAI's generative AI-based approach is perceived to be ahead in some ways, although its current user base remains smaller. The growing discontent with Google's search results quality, advertising saturation, and perceived monopolistic behavior has further piqued interest in this emerging alternative.
A Distinct Approach to Search
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has made it clear that the company does not aim to replicate Google's model. Instead, he envisions a unique integration of ChatGPT with search:
“I don’t think the world needs another copy of Google,” Altman said earlier this year. “We are interested in how to do that well. That would be an example of a cool thing. I don’t think anyone has cracked the code on yet. I would love to go do that.”
Rather than traditional search, the ChatGPT integration could represent an innovative step forward.
Growing Hints of a Launch
Rumors of OpenAI's search product began circulating as early as February. In recent developments, ChatGPT Plus subscribers have noted that links are becoming more prominent, and OpenAI rolled out its web crawler, GPTBot, in August.
Moreover, searches related to "search.chatgpt.com" have appeared in server log files, as reported by Barry Schwartz in Search Engine Roundtable, indicating testing activity. While rumors suggested the product might launch by May 9, it appears the exact date remains uncertain.
Why This Matters
The rapid evolution of AI-driven search, led by OpenAI, is set to challenge traditional search engines. With ChatGPT poised to provide a new approach to information retrieval that prioritizes citations and visual aids while minimizing ads, it could address frustrations many have with Google's current model.
As the generative AI race heats up, ChatGPT's distinct search feature could offer a compelling alternative that may change the landscape of web search for both advertisers and users alike.
