OpenAI rolls out major ChatGPT update

OpenAI has updated ChatGPT’s web search capabilities to improve online shopping for users with personalised product recommendations with images, reviews and direct purchase links.

The generative AI pioneer’s search feature has gained popularity since its introduction last year, and has become one of its most sought-after tools, with over a billion web searches in the past week, the company said.

The update will be available in its default AI model, GPT-4o. It will be accessible to all ChatGPT users worldwide — including Pro, Plus and Free tiers — as well as to those using the service without logging in.

The shopping results will be independently determined, and will rely on structured metadata from third-party sources

Users will receive tailored product recommendations across categories like fashion, beauty, home goods and electronics when they pose specific questions.

The update will exclude advertisements, and the company will not receive commissions from purchases made through the ChatGPT platform, OpenAI said.

The shopping results will be independently determined, and will rely on structured metadata from third-party sources such as pricing, product descriptions and reviews, the company said.

User focused

The move comes as OpenAI is moving to challenge Google’s dominance in search by providing a more user-focused alternative, contrasting with the latter’s advertising-heavy search results.