In the world of search engines and AI tools, there is a new player on the market: SearchGPT, a feature within OpenAI's ChatGPT. This search function combines the power of the GPT language model with live web searches. This creates a direct competitor to Google and alternative AI tools such as Perplexity. This article explains how SearchGPT works, why it can be useful, and what to look out for.
How does SearchGPT work?
SearchGPT works differently than the traditional way ChatGPT answers questions. Normally, ChatGPT draws from a fixed data set that reaches 2023. But if you're looking for up-to-date information, you can activate the new search function. Clicking the globe under the prompt bar enables SearchGPT. From that moment on, ChatGPT searches live on the web and provides a summary of the most relevant sources.
The advantage of real-time search results
Why use SearchGPT instead of just searching via Google? The advantage lies in the speed and convenience. Where Google requires you to scroll through different websites and often view multiple pages, SearchGPT bundles the results and summarizes them briefly. In addition, SearchGPT also provides source citations, so you can directly click through to reliable sites for more information.
This makes it particularly useful for finding current information or gathering insights quickly. Suppose you want to know the latest developments in AI technology or current stock prices, SearchGPT can provide an overview in seconds.
A comparison with Perplexity.ai
In addition to SearchGPT, there is also Perplexity.ai, an AI search engine developed in Silicon Valley. Perplexity has raised millions in investments and is known for its fast and accurate search results. Although ChatGPT is widely known, Perplexity is still relatively unknown. Surely people often automatically go to Google or, recently, to ChatGPT if it's already open. This makes Perplexity a bit of a hidden gem.
However, Perplexity offers many of the same benefits as SearchGPT and can even be more accurate for certain queries. However, you should remember to use Perplexity consciously, as it is not as widespread and directly accessible as ChatGPT.
Important points of attention
While SearchGPT can certainly help you find information quickly, it's important to stay critical. The model searches based on statistical calculations, and that remains a form of probability calculation. The answers are not always 100% accurate and can sometimes make erroneous connections or extract information from less reliable sources.
Another point of attention is that SearchGPT is not a replacement for the classic Google search, but rather an addition. Google still offers a huge source of information, often with more accurate results for in-depth topics. For extensive research, it is sometimes better to use the traditional search methods.
SearchGPT accessibility within ChatGPT
One of the biggest advantages of SearchGPT is accessibility. Many people already have ChatGPT open, and an extra click on the globe is quickly done. For users who are used to ChatGPT, it's a small step to also enable the search function. Its ease of use and seamless integration make it an attractive option for those who want to search without too much hassle. This is especially useful for users who want a quick response without opening dozens of browser tabs.
Conclusion
SearchGPT offers an innovative way of searching on the Internet, directly within ChatGPT. It is an interesting tool for anyone who wants to find information quickly and efficiently. At the same time, there is also Perplexity.ai, a search engine that is at least as powerful in some cases, but is not yet as widely used. Whether you're using SearchGPT or Perplexity.ai, both AI search tools help you get relevant information faster. However, be critical when using them and don't rely blindly on the results.
Whether it's SearchGPT, Perplexity, or Google, every search engine has its strengths and weaknesses. The choice is yours — search smartly, and find what you need.
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