OpenAI Shows Off AI “Researcher” That Compiles Detailed Reports, Struggles to Differentiate “Information From Rumors”

OpenAI’s Latest Advancement: Deep Research Tool

OpenAI has unveiled an innovative research tool known as “deep research,” which aims to gather information from the internet and deliver comprehensive reports resembling the output of a professional research analyst. This cutting-edge tool, built on the advanced o3 model, is specifically tailored to meet the demands of rigorous knowledge work in sectors like finance and scientific research.

Transitioning from Simple Tasks to Complex Analysis

In contrast to its earlier version, Operator, which was geared towards more everyday tasks such as grocery shopping and making reservations, deep research is designed for tackling intricate and sophisticated projects. It not only provides personalized advice for significant purchases, such as cars and appliances, but also claims to accomplish these tasks in mere minutes—far quicker than a human could manage.

Exclusive Access and Functionality

This tool is available exclusively to subscribers of the ChatGPT Pro plan, priced at $200 per month. Deep research functions by meticulously scanning a variety of sources, including text, images, and PDFs online. Generating responses can take anywhere from five to thirty minutes, during which users can monitor the tool’s progress via a real-time activity sidebar. Currently, the reports generated are text-based, but OpenAI has plans to enhance these with images and data visualizations in the future.

Understanding the Limitations

Despite its remarkable capabilities, deep research is not without its drawbacks. OpenAI has acknowledged that, similar to other large language models, this tool may sometimes produce inaccurate information and may have difficulty distinguishing between credible sources and mere speculation. This potential for error raises valid concerns regarding the reliability of the reports it generates, particularly in scientific applications.

The Importance of Verification

While deep research can significantly streamline the process of gathering information, users are urged to remain vigilant and verify the accuracy of the insights it provides. As OpenAI continues to innovate and develop new AI technologies, the importance of careful oversight and critical assessment is increasingly vital to ensure the information remains trustworthy.