November 2nd, 2024

ChatGPT search relies on Bing to generate search results

OpenAI's ChatGPT search feature enables web searches for answers, using a fine-tuned GPT-4o model. Results closely resemble Bing's, raising concerns about independence and potential bias due to Microsoft's investment.

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ChatGPT search relies on Bing to generate search results

OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT search, a feature that allows users to search the web for answers to their queries. This search model utilizes a fine-tuned version of GPT-4o, which is designed to provide context-aware responses. However, reports indicate that the search results from ChatGPT closely mirror those generated by Bing, particularly in terms of the web sources presented. For instance, when users searched for Windows 11 wallpapers, the results were linked to Microsoft’s Bing resources. The similarity in outputs suggests a strong reliance on Bing, especially given Microsoft's significant investment in OpenAI. While OpenAI has acknowledged the use of third-party search providers for generating answers, it has not disclosed the specific extent of this reliance. This connection raises questions about the independence of ChatGPT search results and their potential bias towards Bing's offerings.

- OpenAI's ChatGPT search feature allows users to search the web for answers.

- The search results are reportedly similar to those generated by Bing.

- ChatGPT search uses a fine-tuned version of GPT-4o for context-aware responses.

- Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, may influence the search results.

- OpenAI has not clarified the extent of reliance on third-party search providers.

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By @zamadatix - 6 months
They say as much in the ChatGPT Search documentation https://help.openai.com/en/articles/9237897-chatgpt-search and this is no different than the behavior since they rolled out the "ChatGPT Browse With Bing" feature over a year ago https://help.openai.com/en/articles/8077698-how-do-i-use-cha....