OpenAI recently launched “ChatGPT Search,” a feature designed to provide real-time answers by integrating web search capabilities into the ChatGPT platform. This new search option allows users to get immediate, conversational responses with linked sources for topics like sports scores, news, and stock quotes.
While this feature currently targets ChatGPT Plus and Team users, OpenAI intends to expand access to all users over time. This new functionality aims to blend the advantages of natural language interaction with up-to-date information, aiming to make search more intuitive and informative directly within the ChatGPT interface.
As part of this launch, OpenAI released a Chrome extension called “ChatGPT Search.” The extension, available on the Chrome Web Store, alters the browser’s default search settings so that all address bar searches go through ChatGPT’s search engine.
This change means that typing any query in Chrome’s address bar will direct users to ChatGPT’s search engine, specifically using the URL structure “https://chatgpt.com/?q=.” OpenAI CEO Sam Altman promoted the extension, encouraging users to try ChatGPT Plus and install the extension, calling it a useful upgrade.
Cybersecurity researcher Tal Be’ery, however, raised concerns, likening the extension’s functionality to a “search hijacker,” a type of extension that redirects browser searches without substantial added value.
According to Be’ery, the only function of this extension is to reroute Chrome searches to ChatGPT, which some users might find intrusive or unnecessary. Although the extension does not appear to be harmful, some users and cybersecurity experts are wary, as extensions have the potential to later introduce privacy or security risks through updates.
For users wanting to use ChatGPT Search without the extension, Chrome offers an alternative by allowing a custom search engine shortcut. To set this up, users can navigate to Chrome’s settings under “Search engine” and create a custom search shortcut. By configuring ChatGPT’s search URL, users can use “ChatGPT Search” as their browser’s default search without installing the extension, bypassing any security concerns tied to adding new browser extensions.
While the ChatGPT Search extension provides no apparent harm, it adds little value when users can achieve the same functionality through Chrome’s custom search setup. Extensions can also consume system resources and lead to performance issues when overused, which might make some users hesitant to install them unnecessarily. This launch reflects OpenAI’s push to increase engagement with its platform but has sparked discussion over the need for and risks of adding new browser extensions.
