Introduction to ChatGPT Updates
OpenAI has introduced several new features to ChatGPT’s search tool, making it a more comprehensive platform for users. The updates include shopping functionality, improved source citations, and the ability to search through WhatsApp. These features build upon the real-time search capabilities introduced in October, further challenging traditional search engines like Google.
New Shopping Features
The most significant addition to ChatGPT is its shopping functionality. Users can now search for products, compare options, and buy items directly through the platform. OpenAI ensures that product results are chosen organically, not as advertisements. The tool offers personalized product suggestions based on the user’s current conversation, past chats, and previous searches, including pictures, prices, and reviews.
ChatGPT Memory Update
An upcoming update to ChatGPT’s memory feature will integrate with search and shopping, enabling the AI to utilize users’ past conversations for more accurate results. This feature will roll out to Plus and Pro users over the next few weeks, except in European countries and the UK. Users will have complete control over what ChatGPT remembers and can adjust settings at any time.
Search Through WhatsApp
ChatGPT’s search feature is now accessible through WhatsApp by texting 1-800-ChatGPT (+1-800-242-8478). This allows users to access updated information even when they’re offline or away from their computer. The WhatsApp feature is available to everyone in regions where ChatGPT works.
Better Sources and Faster Searches
ChatGPT now provides multiple sources for information, helping users verify facts across different websites. A new highlighting feature shows which parts of the answers come from specific sources. Other improvements include trending searches and autocomplete, which offer suggestions as you type to speed up your searches.
Getting Indexed
ChatGPT Search uses both Bing’s search index and OpenAI’s technology, with three different crawlers: OAI-SearchBot, ChatGPT-User, and GPTBot. To get indexed properly, websites should update their robots.txt file to allow OAI-SearchBot.
Looking Ahead
With these updates, ChatGPT is evolving into a comprehensive platform for discovering and purchasing products online. OpenAI plans to continue developing its commerce features and may soon provide more ways for brands to participate in ChatGPT’s shopping features. Adam Fry, ChatGPT Search product lead, states that "Search has become one of our most popular & fastest growing features, with over 1 billion web searches just in the past week. We’ll continue to iterate and improve as we learn from real-world use."
Conclusion
The updates to ChatGPT’s search tool demonstrate OpenAI’s commitment to improving the user experience and challenging traditional search engines. With its new shopping features, improved source citations, and WhatsApp accessibility, ChatGPT is becoming a more comprehensive platform for users. As OpenAI continues to develop its commerce features, we can expect to see even more innovative updates in the future.