Fed Up with Google? Here’s How ChatGPT can change the way you search

If like many people, you’re tired of Google’s search engine, which has dominated the market for over two decades, there’s now an alternative from OpenAI. The Sam Altman-led company recently introduced a web search functionality in ChatGPT, positioning it as a new competitor among search engines, similar to Bing, which is run by OpenAI’s largest backer, Microsoft.

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Though it’s been about two weeks since OpenAI launched its AI-powered search engine, not many people are aware that they can now replace Google and other search engines entirely with ChatGPT Search

How to set ChatGPT as your default search engine? 

ChatGPT can be set as your default search engine on all Chromium-based browsers, meaning they support downloading extensions from the Chrome Web Store. This means you can set ChatGPT as your default search engine not only in Google Chrome but also in other popular browsers like Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Opera.

To set ChatGPT as your default search engine, open Google Chrome, search for the ChatGPT Search extension, or simply click on this link to add it. Verify that the extension has been successfully added to your browser by checking the extensions tab.

Do note that some browsers may automatically disable the ChatGPT Search extension, so it’s advisable to add it to the favourites tray to ensure ChatGPT remains your default search engine.

Why can't I use ChatGPT's search feature? 

ChatGPT Search functionality is currently only available to the company's Plus and Team subscribers with access to Enterprise and Education customers to follow in the coming weeks. While OpenAI hasn't committed to a release date, the company says access to free users will be coming soon. 

ChatGPT Search is an evolved version of SearchGPT,  a prototype of AI Search experience teased by OpenAI earlier this year. So, if you had applied for the SearchGPT waitlist, ChatGPT Search would be available to you despite not having a subscription.