# OpenAI’s ChatGPT with Search: A Revolutionary Change in Web Searching
The realm of online search is experiencing a major transformation, as established search engines like Google encounter growing scrutiny for providing content that is more about SEO optimization and AI-generated spam than genuine relevance. In reaction to this, OpenAI has rolled out a novel feature for its AI assistant, ChatGPT, that stands to change how individuals interact with the web: **ChatGPT with Search**. This groundbreaking tool presents a new option to standard search engines, aimed at simplifying the search process by incorporating AI-driven web search directly into dialogues.
## The Diminishing Effectiveness of Traditional Search Engines
For many years, Google Search has been the primary resource for locating information online. However, its reliability has decreased, with users often facing subpar, SEO-optimized content that favors sensationalism over meaningfulness. Furthermore, the emergence of AI-generated spam has only worsened the quality of search outcomes. A recent [study](https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/01/google-search-is-losing-the-fight-with-seo-spam-study-says/) showcased how Google is struggling against these challenges, prompting many to look for other options.
Enter OpenAI. On October 31, 2024, the organization unveiled **ChatGPT with Search**, a capability designed to deliver precise, contextually appropriate answers to user inquiries, supplemented by source citations. This new feature could potentially take the place of traditional search engines for numerous users, offering a more straightforward and effective means of sourcing information online.
## Mechanism of ChatGPT with Search
ChatGPT with Search has been crafted to enhance the web-searching experience. Rather than necessitating that users sift through numerous search results and navigate different links, the AI assistant automatically retrieves pertinent information from the web in response to user queries. Additionally, users have the option to initiate searches manually through a new web search icon.
A highlight of ChatGPT with Search is its capability for **source attribution**. Each search outcome includes a citation link, and users can click a “Sources” button to access the referenced materials in a sidebar. This level of transparency allows users to verify the credibility of the information received, tackling one of the primary concerns surrounding AI-generated content.
The system is underpinned by a refined version of **GPT-4o**, which has undergone post-training using synthetic data from OpenAI’s **o1-preview** model. Although ChatGPT previously featured web search capabilities, the resulting information was frequently outdated or irrelevant. The new search feature aims to offer more current and accurate content, building on insights gained from OpenAI’s prior **SearchGPT prototype**, which was trialed in mid-2024.
## A Diverse Array of Sources
A significant inquiry regarding ChatGPT with Search revolves around the origins of the information. During a demonstration for Ars Technica, OpenAI representatives clarified that the search results stem from a “blend” of sources, including partnered media organizations. While the company did not disclose if the search data is sourced from Microsoft’s Bing or OpenAI’s own crawled index, it is evident that the system is engineered to source from various reliable outlets.
This strategy enables OpenAI to exploit its **new publishing partnerships** with leading media companies, such as the Associated Press, Reuters, The Atlantic, and Vox Media. These collaborations permit OpenAI to embed custom-formatted information into its search results, enriching the user experience with categories like weather, finance, sports, and current events.
## Visual Improvements and Graphical Features
Beyond text-based search results, ChatGPT with Search can now present **graphical features** from the web, marking a notable advancement in its capabilities. For instance, when users inquire about location-specific queries, such as “Where’s the best place to buy ice cream in San Francisco?” they can receive a map alongside relevant search results. This capability recalls Google Image Search but currently has a more restricted range.
Nonetheless, the inclusion of images and maps presents some challenges. In practical assessments, the system sometimes yielded irrelevant images with search results. Despite these occasional issues, the capability to show visual content signifies a substantial progression in ChatGPT’s search functionality.
## The Prospects of Search and Media Alliances
As AI-powered search solutions like ChatGPT with Search gain popularity, concerns emerge regarding the potential for **preferential content positioning**. Will OpenAI favor results from its media collaborators or advertisers? Although the company has not specified an explicit answer, it is probable that media partners who have granted OpenAI permission to utilize their content might receive some degree of preferential treatment.
Looking forward, OpenAI intends to enhance the search feature to incorporate **custom answers for shopping and travel inquiries**, as well as more in-depth search functions driven by the **o1 series**. The company also plans to merge the search function with its **Advanced Voice Mode** and **Canvas** features, further enriching the user experience.
## Launch and Availability
ChatGPT with Search is available starting today for **ChatGPT Plus** and **Team** users.
