OpenAI has announced the launch of SearchGPT, an AI-powered search engine prototype designed to provide fast and timely answers with clear and relevant sources. This prototype is currently being tested by a small group of users and publishers to gather feedback. The goal is to integrate the best features of SearchGPT into ChatGPT in the future.

Key Features of SearchGPT

• Real-Time Information: SearchGPT combines the capabilities of AI models with real-time web information to deliver quick and accurate answers.
• Conversational Interface: Users can ask follow-up questions in a conversational manner, with context building with each query.
• Clear Attribution: Responses include clear, in-line citations and links to sources, allowing users to verify information and engage further.

How SearchGPT Works

SearchGPT responds to user queries using information from the web and includes links to relevant sources. OpenAI describes it as a prototype utilizing AI models to provide fast answers with clear and relevant sources.

• Users start with a search box asking, “What are you searching for?”
• After entering a query, SearchGPT provides an answer with links to sources within the text and additional results in a sidebar.
• Example searches include topics like "music festivals in Boone, NC in August".

Partnership with Publishers

OpenAI is launching a feature for publishers to manage their appearance in SearchGPT, allowing them more control. Importantly, SearchGPT focuses on search and is separate from training OpenAI’s generative AI models. Sites can appear in search results even if they opt out of generative AI training. OpenAI emphasizes its commitment to a thriving ecosystem of publishers and creators. SearchGPT aims to help users discover high-quality content from publishers, providing multiple opportunities for engagement. Publishers can manage how their content appears in SearchGPT, and sites can be included in search results even if they opt out of generative AI training.

Feedback and Availability

OpenAI is seeking feedback from users and publishers to refine SearchGPT. The prototype will help understand how best to engage with AI search products and measure content performance. Future improvements will focus on areas like local information and commerce, with the best features being integrated into ChatGPT.

For those interested in trying SearchGPT, OpenAI has opened a waitlist for sign-ups.