OpenAI has introduced a new shopping research feature in ChatGPT, enhancing the way users can find and compare products. This update, powered by a version of GPT-5 mini specifically trained for shopping tasks, aims to streamline the decision-making process for consumers. Users can now engage in more complex product searches, enabling them to explore options that best fit their individual needs and budgets.
The shopping research capability allows ChatGPT to analyze and synthesize information from trusted websites, thereby producing high-quality product insights. This feature not only presents product information but also introduces a new method for product discovery. By asking targeted questions related to the product category, ChatGPT can better understand user requirements and refine the results accordingly. According to OpenAI, this functionality is particularly effective in detail-heavy categories such as electronics, beauty, home and garden, kitchen and appliances, and sports and outdoor.
For simpler inquiries, such as confirming the availability of specific features, users may still find the regular ChatGPT response adequate. However, for more nuanced comparisons that require examining trade-offs, the shopping research option is recommended. This process typically takes a few minutes to generate a well-researched answer.
Once a user initiates the shopping research, ChatGPT provides a visual interface where they can chat and give feedback on various product options. The system prompts users with questions about budget, feature preferences, and additional criteria to tailor the search results. If users have the ChatGPT memory feature activated, the experience can be even more personalized. For instance, if a user interested in gaming laptops queries ChatGPT, the model will prioritize relevant results based on their past interactions.
This new shopping research feature commenced its rollout on December 1, 2023, for users of ChatGPT on both mobile and web platforms. It is available to all users, including those on Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans. To accommodate holiday shopping, OpenAI has announced that users will have nearly unlimited access to this feature throughout the festive season. For ChatGPT Pro users, the shopping research is integrated into ChatGPT Pulse, offering proactive personalized buyer’s guides based on previous conversations.
As consumers increasingly rely on technology to assist with shopping decisions, OpenAI’s latest innovation aims to enhance user experience by making product research more efficient and tailored. This development underscores the growing trend of integrating advanced AI capabilities into everyday tasks, providing users with valuable resources in a digital marketplace.
