ChatGPT processes a volume of web searches equal to about 20% of Google’s, according to OpenAI. Adam Fry, the executive responsible for ChatGPT’s consumer product, shared the estimate at an OpenAI event on Monday, November 2.
Fry said OpenAI counts a query as a search when a user request leads to a web search. Simple questions, such as asking for a definition or instructions, are excluded. The company did not explain the source or method behind its comparison with Google.
The figure indicates ChatGPT’s growing role as an alternative to traditional search engines, but the gap with Google remains substantial. The comparison also highlights the challenge of gaining ground in a market where Google is well established. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said during Google’s 2023 antitrust trial that Bing held about 3% of the search engine market, despite years of investment in competing with Google.
Search is also changing as AI features become more common. Google has added generative tools to its search service, including AI-produced summaries and more personalized experiences with visual elements and charts. The Verge has noted that ChatGPT searches likely draw on Microsoft’s Bing as well as OpenAI’s own search index; whether some queries are routed to Google remains unclear.
OpenAI is developing more visual and interactive search experiences within ChatGPT under the name “Intelligent UI.” The aim is to let users explore information through visual elements and interactive features without leaving the conversation. Fry described the direction as a future in which users interact with a screen while chatting.
Advertising is another part of OpenAI’s strategy. Fry said ads had not prompted lasting negative reactions and that most users appeared comfortable with them. The company said the previous month that it would begin showing sponsored images of products and services in ChatGPT; earlier ads had mainly displayed a company name, logo and link.
Sources: Olhar Digital.