OpenAI is unveiling new shopping features for ChatGPT Search, designed to improve the shopping experience for users. Launched last year, this search engine has been gaining traction rapidly.
The company reports that ChatGPT registered a staggering 1 billion web searches in just the past week. Millions of people turn to the chatbot to investigate various subjects, including products they wish to buy. However, ChatGPT previously fell short of delivering the same experience as Google Search, an issue this update intends to address.
With the recent update, ChatGPT now presents enhanced product results that include visuals, similar to the product cards seen on platforms like Google and Bing. Users can view images, pricing, and star ratings or reviews from well-known websites such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Reddit, helping them make informed purchasing decisions. Furthermore, this new shopping functionality provides direct links for users to buy the products they inquire about.
Adam Fry, the product lead at OpenAI, informed The Verge that these results will be devoid of advertisements and sponsorships. The design closely resembles Google’s product cards to create a familiar interface for users. OpenAI is partnering with various entities to offer up-to-date pricing, although the specifics of these partnerships have not been disclosed. While the demo of the feature shows promise, actual outcomes may differ.
Reports have indicated that the AI-driven search engine faced challenges in providing accurate information regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 and unexpectedly retrieved results from unreliable sources, including an overpriced eBay listing likely posted by a scalper. This underscores the necessity for ongoing refinements to the feature.
The improvements to ChatGPT’s shopping capabilities are being introduced to Plus, Pro, Free, and logged-out users alike.
Image Source: Primakov / Shutterstock
