Imagine taking ChatGPT, removing the filters (but way more complex) and giving it a bit more freedom to give you exactly what you ask for—no holds barred. That’s pretty much what SearchGPT is. This is a pretty blunt, uncomplicated way of summarizing the prototype’s capabilities, but not far from the mark.
SearchGPT can be seen as a less restricted version of ChatGPT (so not quite ChatGPT with no restrictions…that would be a whole other conversation) because it takes the idea of conversational AI and supercharges it, offering more direct, unfiltered answers without the usual moderation you’d find in other AI tools—more specifically, unlike ChatGPT, SearchGPT isn’t limited to the data it was trained on; instead, it has unrestricted access to the internet, making it a superpowered combination of Google and ChatGPT.
Do we think we’re on the cusp of a world that looks like a more realistic version of iRobot except no Will Smith to save us? No. No we don’t. What we do think is that the SearchGPT vs Google cage match is going to go 5 rounds. No knockouts, and a little difficult to tell if you bet on the right player. So, we must ask ourselves, is SearchGPT a likely candidate for changing the way all online media is searched and consumed, potentially taking the reins from Google? P.S. it’s a prototype, and the waitlist is closed, but better to be prepared right? Right.
Let's go straight to the source as we try to answer that question; I call Sam Altman, CEO and founder of OpenAI to the metaphorical stand.
Some perspective from the Silicon Valley darling who returned to his company like a Steve Jobs of old
Sam Altman’s recent return to OpenAI after a brief and turbulent exit has only heightened the intrigue surrounding his leadership and the company’s potential to reshape how we interact with information online. Altman, often compared to tech visionaries like Steve Jobs (due to his genius, exit, and return), isn’t just interested in challenging Google—he’s aiming to redefine the entire paradigm of search and information retrieval.
Under his guidance, OpenAI seeks to move beyond the traditional search engine model that Google has dominated for decades, proposing instead a more integrated and conversational approach to accessing information. Altman’s vision isn’t just about creating a better version of Google; it’s about fundamentally changing how we synthesize and act on data in a way that reflects modern needs and expectations. With OpenAI’s unique structure and Altman’s bold leadership, the company could very well be positioned to disrupt the online search landscape, but questions remain about whether this approach is enough to overcome the entrenched power and refined algorithms that Google has built over the years.
Now we should probably acknowledge the fact that Sam Altman isn’t the only person in charge at OpenAI, and take into consideration the security and accuracy issues that SearchGPT could present. Let’s do just that:
Who owns OpenAI, and what’s their stance?
OpenAI’s structure includes both a nonprofit organization, OpenAI Inc., and a for-profit subsidiary, OpenAI LP. The nonprofit oversees the company’s direction and ensures its mission aligns with broad public benefit, while the for-profit arm handles operations, raising capital, and paying employees. OpenAI’s unique structure is designed to balance making profits with ensuring AI benefits humanity.
That being said, Sam Altman is the guy most look to as the voice of authority on OpenAI’s dealings. He started the company, and is acting CEO, but has no equity for moral reasons (we applaud you sir). Let’s just say Sam Altman is really into SearchGPT—see the tweet we pulled below—but when it comes to AI in general, he’s pretty serious about the risks. He’s concerned that if AI development isn’t led by democratic countries like the U.S., it could fall into the hands of authoritarian regimes, which could use it to tighten their grip on power. He’s all about the U.S. leading the way in AI to prevent that.
So what’s all the fuss about?
Well, for starters, SearchGPT is shaking things up by turning search on its head. Unlike the usual search engines that give you a list of links, SearchGPT gets straight to the point. It’s like having a conversation with someone who not only knows everything but also doesn’t beat around the bush. You ask, it answers—directly and with sources to back it up.
SearchGPT also boasts real-time updates and a deep understanding of the context behind your questions. It’s not just about answering what you asked, but also anticipating what you might want to know next. This makes it feel less like a search engine and more like a supercharged, unrestricted version of ChatGPT, tailored for the information-hungry. If you’re looking for a more formal explanation about its features checkout OpenAI’s page: “SearchGPT is a prototype of new AI search features."
Is it all sunshine and rainbows?
Well, not exactly. There’s a tradeoff here: disrupting Google’s monopoly and introducing more choices might seem beneficial, but OpenAI lacks the decades of refinement that shape how we consume news and information today. Additionally, SearchGPT suggests a shift in the economic model, where OpenAI might start paying publishers directly for their content, unlike Google’s ad-based system where revenue is generated through user clicks. This could mean that instead of relying on multiple advertisers, newspapers and magazines might become dependent on a single major client, OpenAI, which introduces its own risks and challenges.
Final thoughts
The SearchGPT prototype is definitely pushing the boundaries of what AI can do. Whether it dethrones Google and ends up being the go-to tool for unfiltered search, changes the media landscape as we know it, or falls by the wayside as a cautionary tale about the risks of too much freedom, remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: it’s changing the game.
So, what do you think? Is SearchGPT the future we want, or does it need a few more boundaries? Keep the discussion going on our Instagram @sangfroidmarketing —we love a good thought provoking conversation.
