Highlights:

  • Citing two sources familiar with the matter, Reuters reported that the announcement date, which could be subject to change, maybe intentionally timed to precede Google’s annual I/O conference next week.
  • While the paid version of ChatGPT does offer web search capabilities, its current results are not as comprehensive or well-referenced as those provided by Perplexity, which offers richer and more substantiated responses.

OpenAI’s new AI-powered search product is reportedly poised to challenge Google LLC in the internet search market, which could be launched soon.

Citing two sources familiar with the matter, Reuters reported that the announcement date, which could be subject to change, maybe intentionally timed to precede Google’s annual I/O conference next week. This move is seen as strategic, considering Google’s expected unveiling of various new AI products during the event.

Reports indicating that OpenAI was gearing up to introduce a search product to rival Google first surfaced earlier this week. Bloomberg reported on May 7 that the forthcoming search feature wouldn’t just challenge Google and the emerging AI-powered search provider, Perplexity AI Inc.

Perplexity is pertinent, as reports indicate that the upcoming OpenAI search service will operate similarly. Perplexity conducts web searches and provides referenced answers sourced from online content, mirroring the purported functionality of the OpenAI service. Interestingly, Perplexity was founded by a former OpenAI researcher.

In one iteration of the search service, images are incorporated alongside textual responses to queries. For instance, if a user inquired about changing a doorknob, the results might include a diagram illustrating the process.

OpenAI’s ChatGPT has encountered challenges searching the web and providing real-time, pertinent answers. While the paid version of ChatGPT does offer web search capabilities, its current results are not as comprehensive or well-referenced as those provided by Perplexity, which offers richer and more substantiated responses. Over 10 million users of Perplexity might not find it surprising that ChatGPT aims to provide a similar user experience.

The potential decision by OpenAI to enter the search market, if the reports are accurate, coincides with a period of growth among competitors to the leading AI service, who are advancing in capabilities, expanding their user base, and securing increased funding.

Indeed, ChatGPT’s early market presence and its establishment as a leader are noteworthy achievements. However, as observed in numerous sectors, including internet search, there’s always the looming possibility of a newcomer seizing market share and potentially rising to dominance. A prime illustration of this dynamic is the manner in which Google surpassed competitors like Altavista, Yahoo, and other pioneers in the field of web search engines.

If executed effectively, particularly given the current perception of Google search as flawed by many, improving search functionality could represent a significant opportunity for OpenAI.