Minimalist interface showing ChatGPT's message input field with a blue Search button and cursor hovering over it
ChatGPT
Boonyawee Sirimaya
2
min read
November 6, 2024

Introducing ChatGPT’s New Search Feature

ChatGPT’s web search capability has been upgraded, offering quicker, more accurate responses with links to reliable web sources. This update saves users from needing a separate search engine, delivering a blend of natural language ease with up-to-date information on sports, news, stocks, and more—all within a single chat.

The enhanced search functionality works automatically based on your question or can be manually activated by clicking the web search icon. Currently, it’s available on chatgpt.com as well as on desktop and mobile apps. ChatGPT Plus and Team users, along with those on the SearchGPT waitlist, already have access, with upcoming releases planned for Enterprise and Education users, and soon, all Free users.

A Smarter Way to Get Answers

Finding accurate answers online can take significant effort, often requiring multiple searches and link-hopping to verify information. Now, ChatGPT’s new web search does the heavy lifting: simply ask your question conversationally, and ChatGPT will tap into the web for a real-time response. You can also dive deeper with follow-up questions, as ChatGPT keeps track of your chat’s context to refine its answers.

Minimalist interface showing ChatGPT's message input field with a blue Search button and cursor hovering over it
ChatGPT Search feature interface

Additionally, to deliver accurate, real-time data, ChatGPT now collaborates with major news and data providers, giving users instant access to information on weather, stock prices, sports updates, breaking news, and more.

Line graph showing NVIDIA Corporation's stock performance and map location of Absolute Bagels that are generated by ChatGPT Search
ChatGPT gives users instant access to stock and maps information.

Direct Source Access

Responses now come with source links, like news articles or blogs, giving you the option to explore more in-depth information. Simply click the Sources button under a response to open a sidebar listing these references. This feature enhances transparency, making it easy for users to check information accuracy or dive deeper into a topic.

Article interface showing backyard renovation ideas with four inspiration photos and a list of citations from various home improvement sources
Backyard improvement suggestions with with a list of citations by ChatGPT

Expanding Reach for Content Creators

By connecting users with high-quality, original content, ChatGPT’s search also broadens publishers' audiences, helping users discover new websites and reputable news sources. This partnership model involved collaborations with major publishers, including the Associated Press, Le Monde, and Vox Media, among others. OpenAI has also invited all publishers to participate, giving content creators another way to reach a global audience through this innovative platform.

How It Works and What’s Next

The search model operates on a refined version of GPT-4o, with enhanced performance thanks to synthetic data generation techniques. ChatGPT’s search uses third-party providers alongside direct content from OpenAI’s partners to deliver the information users need.

Building on the success of the SearchGPT prototype, ChatGPT’s search model will continue to evolve, with upcoming features aimed at improving areas like shopping and travel information. Future updates are expected to expand this experience to advanced voice features and the canvas tool, making ChatGPT even more versatile and widely accessible. ChatGPT Plus and Team users can try out this new feature today on chatgpt.com.

The future of web search is here, with ChatGPT making it easier to access the information you need—all within a natural, conversational experience.

Consult with our experts at Amity Solutions for additional information on Amity Chatbot here