ChatGPT Search goes live for free users, more features set to go live next

OpenAI announced that it is expanding ChatGPT Search to all free users. The move marks a broader rollout of the feature that it initially introduced in October 2024 for paid subscribers only. This feature will allow the AI model to fetch real-time data from the web. It is expected to offer more dynamic and up-to-date responses for users.

The new function was previously launched under the name “SearchGPT.” With this rollout, the chatbot no longer relies on pre-trained knowledge. By simply tapping a globe icon, users can activate the web search mode and enable ChatGPT to source information directly from various websites.

OpenAI expands ChatGPT search

OpenAI, in an  X post, stated that users can search the web in a faster, better way, and it is available globally on mobile and desktop apps for all logged-in users. it also noted that “Search with Advanced Voice” in ChatGPT will be rolling out over the next week.

It added that it has made the tool faster for users to access the web when they use ChatGPT as the default search engine in their browser. OpenAI mentioned that it is also adding maps to ChatGPT in the mobile apps. This will allow users to search for and chat about local restaurants and businesses with up-to-date information.

Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, highlighted the chatbot’s ability to deliver up-to-date answers along with relevant web links. This includes streamlining tasks managed by search engines. It also noted that links such as those from Netflix or travel platforms will now be displayed at the top of search results. This will be followed by text-based responses.

OpenAI’s billion-dollar funding spree

The creator behind ChatGPT is making waves with a reported plan to raise more funds. OpenAI has rocketed from a startup to a household name in record time. Launched in late 2022, the chatbot gained 100 million weekly active users within a year and doubled that number by August 2024.

According to reports, the cost of training AI models like ChatGPT is huge, and OpenAI is operating at a loss. Despite raising a jaw-dropping $17.9 billion by September 2024, it needs even more cash to stay afloat. These funds mostly came from Microsoft. The company has tapped investors every 11 months on average. This is a stark contrast to other AI startups which typically raise funds every 2 years. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s internal projections forecast $44 billion in red ink over the next 5 years.

Just like Musk did with Tesla, OpenAI could tap into retail investor hype to make billions even before the stock hits the market. Even if retail investors don’t get direct access, their buzz could send the stock soaring.

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