The world of AI chatbots is undergoing a remarkable evolution. OpenAI has added a new capability to its ChatGPT chatbot: real-time web search. In this article, we highlight what this new addition to the technology means for you as a user and how it revolutionizes the way you interact with ChatGPT. We also take a look at how other technology companies, notably Meta, are using similar features in their own chat apps.
Table of contents
- OpenAI's innovation: Up-to-date information on demand
- Instructions for activating the real-time search
- Advanced capabilities: More than just text
- Browse with Bing: exclusivity and future plans
- Multisensory interaction: A chatbot that "sees" and "hears"
- Meta jumps on the bandwagon
- ChatGPT for developers: a co-programmer?
- Security aspects and data protection
OpenAI's innovation: Up-to-date information on demand
Previously, ChatGPT relied on a fixed data set that was updated until September 2021. That has changed. Now the chatbot can access up-to-date and reliable online sources in real time. This means that the answers you receive can be up to date with the latest information. Also, source information is provided in the answers, so you can check the accuracy of the information yourself.
Instructions for activating the real-time search
For subscribers, OpenAI offers an easy way to get the new feature up and running. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to "Profiles & Settings
- Select "Beta Features
- Activate "Browse with Bing
For iPhone users, there is a special way, shared by The Verge journalist Wes Davis:
- Tap on the three dots and go to "Settings".
- Select "New Features
- Activate "Browse with Bing
- Start a new chat and select ChatGPT4
- Activate "Browse with Bing
This means that real-time search should now also be available on iOS devices.
Advanced capabilities: More than just text
Besides the ability to search the Internet in real time, ChatGPT has also gained the impressive ability to generate images. This opens up a whole new level of interaction with an artificial intelligence and could be useful in various use cases, from education to entertainment.
Browse with Bing: exclusivity and future plans
The feature, known as Browse with Bing, is currently only available to users with a Plus or Corporate subscription. However, OpenAI plans to fully unlock this feature additionally for all users in the near future. This shows how important it is to provide up-to-date and reliable information.
Multisensory interaction: A chatbot that "sees" and "hears"
OpenAI has recently added new features that allow ChatGPT to handle not only text, but also audio and video. This could revolutionize the way we interact with AI chatbots, making them an even more versatile and complex tool.
Meta jumps on the bandwagon
Interestingly, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, is also planning to integrate a similar feature into its chat apps. This suggests that real-time web search in AI chatbots is a trend that is developing across the technology industry.
ChatGPT for developers: a co-programmer?
There are also signs that ChatGPT is gaining popularity in the developer community. With its ability to understand code and even assist with programming, ChatGPT could become a valuable resource for developers looking for an intelligent assistant.
Security aspects and data protection
Another important point to consider when using ChatGPT is privacy. OpenAI has implemented several security measures to protect the privacy of the users. However, it is advisable not to share sensitive information with the chatbot.
Real-time - web search in ChatGPT is an important step in the evolution of AI chatbots. Not only does it provide more up-to-date and reliable answers, but it also increases transparency by providing source information. As this feature becomes more integrated with other technology platforms, it is only a matter of time before it becomes the standard in the industry.