OpenAI has officially introduced SearchGPT on December 16/2024, an AI-powered search engine designed to provide real-time access to online information, marking a significant move into the competitive search engine landscape dominated by Google. Initially launched as a prototype in July 2024, SearchGPT is now available to all ChatGPT users, enhancing the platform’s capabilities and challenging traditional search methods.
SearchGPT utilizes the GPT-4 model to deliver up-to-date information from across the web, allowing users to receive answers on various topics without the need for extensive link navigation.
Upon accessing SearchGPT, users are greeted with a prominent textbox that prompts them with “What are you looking for?” This design aims to categorize and clarify search results rather than simply listing links.

SearchGPT, summarize using multiple sources.
The tool provides summarized responses from multiple sources, including embedded media such as photos and YouTube videos. Users can also engage further by asking follow-up questions or exploring additional resources via a sidebar.
OpenAI has partnered with various publishers, including major news organizations, to ensure accurate representation of content in search results. This collaboration includes tools that allow publishers to manage how their content is displayed.
SearchGPT is currently free for users, with no advertisements disrupting the experience. This approach aims to attract a broad user base during its launch phase.
Implications for the Search Engine Market
The introduction of SearchGPT signals a potential shift in how users interact with search engines. By integrating AI capabilities into the search experience, OpenAI is positioning itself as a direct competitor to Google and other established platforms. The ability to provide contextualized answers and source citations may appeal to users seeking efficient and reliable information retrieval.
As OpenAI enhances its search functionalities, it poses a challenge to Google’s dominance in the market. Google has also been integrating AI features into its search engine, indicating that both companies are racing to innovate in this space.
Startups like Perplexity are already in the fray, branding themselves as AI “answer” engines. OpenAI’s entry could intensify competition among AI-driven search services.
OpenAI plans to continue refining SearchGPT based on user feedback and performance metrics. The company aims to integrate these functionalities directly into ChatGPT, potentially transforming it into a comprehensive tool for both conversational AI and web searching.
OpenAI’s launch of SearchGPT not only enhances its product offerings but also reshapes the competitive landscape of online search engines. By prioritizing user engagement and collaboration with publishers, OpenAI is setting the stage for a new era of AI-driven information retrieval.
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