OpenAI has announced a new feature called Browsing that allows subscribers using the premium version of ChatGPT to browse the web. This feature is currently available for mobile users, enabling ChatGPT to search Bing for answers to queries.
OpenAI states that Plus users can now access extensive information and up-to-date insights on various topics beyond the model’s initial training data. To experience the Browsing feature, users need to enable it in the new features section of their app settings. They can then select GPT-4 in the model switcher and choose Browse with Bing from the drop-down menu.
Additionally, the improved search history functionality allows users to access specific points in the conversation by tapping on relevant search results.
Browsing is available on both the iOS and Android ChatGPT apps. OpenAI believes that this feature is particularly valuable for inquiries concerning current events and other information that goes beyond the original training data of ChatGPT. However, when Browsing is disabled, ChatGPT’s knowledge is limited up until 2021.
OpenAI has been expanding its services since the launch of ChatGPT, introducing new features to enhance user experience. Features such as Shared Links, which allow users to create and share ChatGPT conversations, as well as Plugins including third-party plugins, have been rolled out.
The addition of Browsing significantly enhances ChatGPT’s usefulness as an assistant, especially for research purposes. Previously, the model’s knowledge was limited to information available up until 2021. Now, with Browsing, ChatGPT can provide more accurate and relevant information in response to queries about current events.
However, concerns have been raised regarding OpenAI’s decision to restrict ChatGPT’s browsing capabilities exclusively to Bing. Some argue that relying solely on Bing as the search engine may not provide the most comprehensive search results. Bing has faced criticism in the past for potential biases in its search results. Furthermore, a recent study highlighted the presence of disinformation in Bing’s top search results.
While Microsoft continues to improve Bing’s algorithms, the limitation of ChatGPT’s Browsing feature to just one search engine may be problematic if Bing encounters any shortcomings. Users would not have alternative search engine options to rely on.
In other news related to the ChatGPT app, OpenAI has announced that users can now directly access specific points in the conversation by tapping on search results. This enhancement, along with the introduction of Browsing, will be rolled out during the current week, according to OpenAI’s statement.
Overall, the Browsing feature in ChatGPT expands the capabilities of this AI assistant, providing users with more up-to-date and accurate information. However, concerns remain about the exclusivity of Bing as the search engine and the potential limitations it may pose.
