OpenAI is launching a direct challenge to Google's search engine monopoly with the introduction of SearchGPT.
This new AI-powered search tool, which is currently in beta testing, promises to provide real-time, summarized search results with detailed source information.
The move places OpenAI in direct competition with not only Google but also its primary investor, Microsoft's Bing, and emerging rivals like Perplexity. The announcement sent shockwaves through the tech industry, causing a 3% drop in Alphabet's share price.
SearchGPT represents a significant shift in the search landscape. By offering features like follow-up questions and contextual responses, OpenAI aims to create a more engaging and informative search experience. The company also plans to incorporate the tool's best aspects into its popular ChatGPT platform.
While Google remains the undisputed leader in search with a 91.1% market share, the emergence of AI-driven competitors is forcing the company to innovate at a faster pace. However, the new players are not without their challenges. Perplexity, for example, is facing legal action from several publishers.
As the AI arms race heats up, the search industry is undergoing a rapid transformation. With major tech companies investing heavily in AI development, users can expect to see even more innovative search tools in the coming months and years.