OpenAI makes AI search engine available for all

OpenAI has started rolling out ChatGPT’s AI search engine to all users from Tuesday (December 17, 2024). In its latest announcement from the ‘12 days of Shipmas’ series, the AI startup has also upgraded the built-in search engine with new features. 

Users will now receive more details when searching for say a restaurant including a pop-up that will show opening hours, directions, reviews and other information. If people are searching for upcoming events around them, the search engine will replace the standard text snippet it normally gives, with a list of events. Each option will show a short description and a thumbnail with a link to the relevant webpage. 

If you click on a location, it will also show a map with directions that users can navigate from within the app.

Additionally, the AI chatbot will also show a link to the website when you’re looking for say an airport cab service. Users will also be able to use Advanced Voice Mode when searching and will get up-to-date information.

The search engine was rolled out to paid subscribers in October first. It will be available at the free tier now but users have to be logged into their accounts. 

Previously, OpenAI has released their AI video generator Sora and a $200 ChatGPT Pro subscription.