OpenAI: ChatGPT Handles 20% of Search Queries Equivalent to Google

ChainCatcher report, citing The Verge, states that Adam Fry, Head of Consumer Products for OpenAI’s ChatGPT, said at a media event on Monday that the volume of search queries handled by ChatGPT has reached 20% of Google’s search query volume. He defined search as user actions involving inputting a query that triggers a web search, excluding tasks such as defining terms or providing simple instructions, but did not disclose the source of Google’s search volume data. For comparison, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated during Google’s 2023 antitrust trial that Bing accounted for approximately 3% of the search engine market. The report notes that OpenAI’s search likely relies heavily on Microsoft Bing, alongside its own search index. Fry also said that OpenAI’s “Intelligent UI” refers to the creation of visual, interactive interfaces within chatbot responses, and described this as the future direction of the technology. Fry also addressed advertising, stating that ads have not negatively impacted the product or its usage, and that most users do not seem to mind ads within the product. OpenAI announced last month that it would begin displaying images of sponsored products and services in ChatGPT, rather than just company names, logos, and product links. The report notes that this discussion comes as the company may be preparing to launch its IPO in early next year.