AI in November: ChatGPT Thrives, Perplexity Buys, & Policy Drives
Jason Kaufman
1 Million+ Ways to Use AI | Generative AI Consultant, Speaker, Business Owner
ChatGPT Integrates Live Web Search
OpenAI has launched a real-time web search feature within ChatGPT, offering paid subscribers enhanced functionality for accessing live data. This update integrates seamlessly into the ChatGPT interface, where users can toggle web search on or off based on their needs.
Adam Fry, ChatGPT’s search lead, emphasized partnerships with Bing to deliver real-time information without incorporating ads, stating, "There are no plans to add ads to ChatGPT’s search results." This ad-free approach could appeal to users who prefer an alternative to ad-driven search platforms like Google Gemini or Microsoft Copilot.
Beyond basic searches, ChatGPT delivers advanced capabilities, including interactive maps and links to original sources. This tool aims to bolster factual accuracy, particularly during critical periods such as the US elections, reducing misinformation risks while enabling transparent content use.
ChatGPT's Enhanced History Search
Another improvement to ChatGPT includes a feature allowing users to search through their past conversations. This capability, currently available to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, simplifies the retrieval of previous discussions. OpenAI has also streamlined conversation management with options to delete individual chats or clear entire histories, providing users granular control over their data.
Google Gemini Debuts on iPhone
Google's AI chatbot Gemini has launched on the Apple App Store, bringing natural voice-based interactions to iPhone users. The app supports brainstorming, travel planning, and interview prep. This marks Google's shift away from its earlier Assistant product toward cutting-edge AI integration through its consolidated DeepMind research lab.
OpenAI’s "Operator" Poised for Launch
Set for a January release, OpenAI's "Operator" will autonomously handle multi-step tasks, such as booking travel or coding, on users' computers. This tool is part of a broader industry trend toward AI agents. CEO Sam Altman described agent-based models as the "next significant leap in AI," reflecting growing competition from Microsoft, Anthropic, and Google in this domain.
Perplexity's AI-Powered Shopping
Perplexity has introduced "Buy with Pro," an AI-powered eCommerce feature for its Pro users in the U.S. The tool enables direct shopping within the app using Shopify's API, offering free shipping and personalized, non-sponsored recommendations. Complementary features like "Snap to Shop," which matches uploaded images to products, further enhance user experience. Despite its focus on shopping, Perplexity plans to grow revenue through its ad business while addressing copyright challenges from publishers like The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Trump’s AI Policy Shift Expected
With Donald Trump's return to the presidency, the AI industry anticipates policy changes emphasizing reduced regulation and private sector leadership. His alliance with Elon Musk signals potential cuts to AI research funding and the repeal of Biden's executive order on AI safety. Musk, a vocal advocate for AI, may influence Trump’s approach as an advisor.
While deregulation could boost competition and innovation, concerns arise over its long-term implications for AI safety and public interest. National security, particularly concerning China, is expected to remain a key focus in Trump’s AI strategy.
ChatGPT at Two Years: Lessons Learned
Two years after ChatGPT's release, its widespread adoption has revealed the importance of balancing AI's potential with human engagement. Insights from over 200 million weekly users highlight challenges like automation bias and decision fatigue. Experts call for a framework of awareness and accountability to ensure AI complements rather than replaces human intelligence.
Sources
#AI #ChatGPT #ArtificialIntelligence #TechNews #OpenAI #GoogleGemini #Perplexity #Trump