SearchGPT Prototype: A New Era of AI Search

OpenAI is testing SearchGPT, a new search functionality prototype that combines AI models with web information. It aims to provide quick, timely answers and clearly list relevant sources. This temporary prototype will pave the way for future integration into ChatGPT functionalities.

A New Way of Searching

Finding answers on the web often requires multiple attempts to get relevant results, which can be time-consuming. OpenAI believes that by enhancing the conversational capabilities of the model and combining it with real-time web information, the search process can become faster and easier.

SearchGPT aims to answer your questions directly, providing the latest information from the web while clearly listing links to relevant sources. You can ask follow-up questions just like in a conversation, with each query building on shared context.

Collaboration with Publishers and Creators

OpenAI is committed to creating a thriving ecosystem of publishers and creators. They aim to help users discover publishers’ websites and experiences while bringing more choices to search. Search has always been a fundamental way for publishers and creators to reach users, and now OpenAI is enhancing this experience with AI, highlighting high-quality content through a conversational interface, providing users with multiple engagement opportunities.

The design of SearchGPT aims to help users connect with publishers by prominently citing and linking to them in search results. Responses include clear, inline, attributed sources and links, so users know the information sources and can quickly see more results and source links in the sidebar.

OpenAI has collaborated with publishers to build this experience and is continuously seeking their feedback. Alongside the launch of the SearchGPT prototype, they have also introduced a way for publishers to manage their presentation in SearchGPT, offering more choices.

Next Steps

OpenAI will continue to improve the experience in local information and commercial areas. They also plan to gather feedback from users and publishers on the prototype and integrate the best experiences into ChatGPT.

Participation in Testing

If you are interested in trying SearchGPT, you can sign up for the waiting list.

Issues in the Demonstration Video

In the recent ChatGPT search engine announcement, they demonstrated a search for “music festivals in Boone, NC in August.” However, there were some errors in this example:

1. A music festival in Boone was listed, but it actually ended on July 27th. The date provided by ChatGPT was when the ticket office closed.
2. A music festival in Swannanoa was mentioned, but this location is two hours from Boone, closer to Asheville.
3. A free Friday night summer concert at a community center was listed as a result, but this is not a music festival (though similar).
4. A local venue’s website link was provided.
5. A music festival held in June was listed, although ChatGPT’s summary noted this.

These errors highlight the ongoing challenges AI search engines face in providing accurate and relevant information.

I saw this message on Twitter (X), the discussion thread is here kifleswing if you’re interested.

Demonstration video link

Related Links

• More information
• Waiting list