OpenAI is stepping into the e-commerce ring with a bold update. The new ChatGPT shopping features now offer product recommendations and direct buying options. This move clearly positions OpenAI as a competitor to Google in online shopping.
With the latest update, users can search for products directly in ChatGPT. Then, they can click a link to buy from popular retailers like Amazon and Walmart. These new ChatGPT shopping features work even if users aren’t signed in. That makes the experience easy and accessible for everyone.
Users asking for suggestions like coffee makers or office chairs receive results based on personal preferences. ChatGPT considers product reviews, user memory, and past chats. These results come from multiple sources, including Amazon, Reddit, and expert buying guides. If users want, they can ask ChatGPT to focus on reviews from one source.
Adam Fry, who leads the search product at OpenAI, explained that these updates support various product categories. These include fashion, electronics, home goods, and beauty products. He emphasized that ChatGPT uses memory to suggest products that match users’ preferences. So if someone prefers a certain brand or style, ChatGPT will remember.
Unlike Google, the platform does not show sponsored product listings. At least, not for now. Fry stated that OpenAI is currently not earning revenue from these features. However, review websites that rely on affiliate income may feel the impact. Users can make purchase decisions directly in ChatGPT without visiting the original source.
OpenAI has not yet announced any compensation plan for these sites. Fry only said the company will explore options in the future. The focus right now remains on accuracy and helpful suggestions.
In addition to the ChatGPT shopping features, OpenAI added trending search lists and an auto-complete tool. These tools mirror Google’s familiar features, offering faster and more intuitive user experiences.
OpenAI continues to develop new tools like the “Operator” agent. This experimental feature allows ChatGPT to perform online tasks using a browser. The company first enabled real-time web searches in October.
These moves show that OpenAI is serious about challenging Google. The introduction of the ChatGPT shopping features is just the latest step in this growing rivalry.
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