OpenAI has introduced a revolutionary AI-powered search engine, SearchGPT, which promises to shake up the search landscape, currently dominated by Google and Perplexity. This new tool leverages cutting-edge AI to provide users with real-time, organized information directly from the internet.

SearchGPT is still in its prototype phase, featuring a sleek interface that prompts users with “What are you looking for?” Unlike traditional search engines that return pages of links, SearchGPT synthesizes and summarizes information. For example, a search about music festivals results in brief, insightful descriptions of various festivals, complete with source attributions and additional links displayed in a sidebar.

( Image credits: OpenAI )

In another demonstration, a query about planting tomatoes yields comprehensive advice on planting times and different tomato varieties, with options for follow-up questions seamlessly integrated into the search process.

( Image credits: SearchGPT )

Powered by the latest GPT-4 AI models, SearchGPT is designed to eventually incorporate its best features into ChatGPT. This integration aims to enhance the capabilities and user experience of both platforms.

The introduction of SearchGPT signifies increased competition for Google, which has been integrating AI into its search results amidst various challenges. Google’s AI Overviews feature, launched during their annual I/O event, faced significant criticism for providing incorrect and potentially harmful information. Despite these setbacks, Google continues to refine its AI search tools, likely feeling the pressure from OpenAI’s advancements.

Meanwhile, Perplexity has faced its own controversies. An investigation by Wired revealed that Perplexity was accused of content theft and fabrication, prompting Forbes to threaten legal action.

Aware of these industry challenges, OpenAI has partnered with reputable publishers such as The Atlantic and News Corp to enhance SearchGPT. The announcement highlighted that SearchGPT prominently cites and links to sources, ensuring transparency and credibility. Users can engage with additional results via a sidebar with source links, and publishers like The Wall Street Journal and Associated Press have control over how their content appears in SearchGPT.

Rumors about a ChatGPT-powered search engine have been circulating since February. While the GPT-4o model was initially released, SearchGPT now offers a promising new direction. Currently free and in testing with around 10,000 users, SearchGPT invites curious users to join its waitlist.

Financially, OpenAI faces significant operational costs. The Information reported potential losses of up to $4 billion from renting Microsoft servers to power ChatGPT. This financial strain may partly explain OpenAI’s increasing partnerships with publishers and manufacturers like Apple.