ChatGPT Search: A New Era in Search Engines
The biggest benefit of using an AI chatbot is being able to input and receive conversational queries. Combine that with real-time access to the Internet, and you have a more efficient search engine. That’s exactly what ChatGPT Search is — and now you can make it your default search engine.
What is ChatGPT Search?
ChatGPT Search can be accessed through the regular ChatGPT interface as long as you are a ChatGPT Plus or Teams subscriber or were on the waitlist for SearchGPT. If you have access to ChatGPT Search and are ready to commit to always using ChatGPT instead of Google, you can do so by installing the free Chrome extension.
How to Install the ChatGPT Extension
Open the Chrome web store and visit the ChatGPT Search page. Click “Add to Chrome” and then click “Add extension” on the pop-up to finish the process. After installation, your Chrome interface will look the same; however, when you enter something in the search bar, you will see that it is redirected automatically to ChatGPT Search.
Using ChatGPT Search
Some use cases where SearchGPT excels are when working on a research paper or project that involves examining many newer topics. It can break down the material in a much simpler way to understand and narrow down the number of links you have to sift through.
However, for some prompts — such as anything shopping-related — Google is still the best alternative. For example, when I entered “Best coats for winter,” the ChatGPT results populated a list of jackets with links to the websites that recommended them. I prefer to see clickable links to the sites so that I can visit the sites myself, see the prices, and browse on my own. For that reason, I think the Google Shopping experience is better suited for shopping queries.
Should You Keep ChatGPT On by Default?
Should you keep ChatGPT on by default and turn it off for specific queries where Google is preferred, or the other way around? That depends on your particular needs. I’m keeping Google as my default search engine because, daily, I rely on a traditional search engine results page for my job. However, I’m not uninstalling the extension because I find it helpful, especially in situations where I want to learn more about a subject, as ChatGPT answers conversationally and saves me time from skimming multiple articles.
Conclusion
ChatGPT Search is a game-changer in the world of search engines. With its ability to provide conversational answers and real-time access to the Internet, it’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to streamline their search experience. While it may not be perfect for all use cases, it’s definitely worth trying out, especially if you’re already a ChatGPT Plus subscriber.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to be a ChatGPT Plus subscriber to use ChatGPT Search?
A: Yes, you need to be a ChatGPT Plus subscriber or were on the waitlist for SearchGPT to access ChatGPT Search.
Q: How do I install the ChatGPT extension?
A: Open the Chrome web store and visit the ChatGPT Search page. Click “Add to Chrome” and then click “Add extension” on the pop-up to finish the process.
Q: Can I use ChatGPT Search for all my search queries?
A: While ChatGPT Search is a powerful tool, it may not be suitable for all use cases. For example, if you’re looking for shopping-related information, Google may be a better alternative.
Q: Can I turn the ChatGPT extension on and off?
A: Yes, you can turn the ChatGPT extension on and off depending on your current search needs. Simply click on the extension next to your search bar, click on manage extension, and toggle it off.
