OpenAI’s ChatGPT search feature was previously only available to paying users, then expanded to logged-in users. Now, it’s been opened up even further to everyone, allowing users to start searching without creating or logging into an account. This makes it more accessible overall and officially positions it as a true competitor to Google.

ChatGPT Search can now be used without logging into an account.
ChatGPT Search operates very similarly to a typical search engine, allowing users to quickly ask questions, get answers, and be linked to sources directly within the ChatGPT interface. It usually performs a web search automatically to provide up-to-date information, and users can also trigger a manual web search using a specific button. Of course, you can alsoOfficial WebsitePerform a search on.

This update makes ChatGPT Search easier to use, and since it is open to everyone, it directly competes with other major search engines such as Google and Microsoft. Removing the login requirement appears aimed at attracting more users and becoming more competitive in the search engine market. But that doesn’t mean it will immediately become a major rival. Google enjoys considerable popularity, and other search engines have a hard time replacing it. Online search is almost synonymous with Google, so despite ChatGPT’s popularity, it is not as easy to gain widespread adoption as a service like Bing, Google’s main competitor.

Recently, OpenAI also launched a brand-new AI model and a named ChatGPT’s new Deep Research featureMeanwhile, the company has also introduced a new identifying marker for ChatGPT, signaling that they are making a strong push to make the service more recognizable and popular. These developments suggest that OpenAI is actively trying to innovate, possibly due to competition in the AI market from companies like DeepSeek.

ChatGPT search that doesn’t require creating or logging into an account makes the service easier to access, potentially attracting people who want to try AI without creating an OpenAI account. A simpler setup might also encourage more people to use and share data, helping OpenAI improve search functionality and quality.
Source: KOCPC Chinese