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

OpenAI’s Innovative Deep Research Tool

OpenAI has recently unveiled an exciting new research tool known as “deep research,” designed to scour the web for information and generate comprehensive reports that mimic the outputs of a professional research analyst. Utilizing the advanced o3 model, this tool aims to support demanding knowledge-intensive tasks in sectors such as finance and scientific research.

In contrast to its earlier version, Operator, which was tailored for simpler tasks like grocery shopping and making reservations, deep research targets more complex activities. It can provide tailored suggestions for significant purchases, including automobiles and household appliances, claiming to achieve in mere minutes what would typically require hours of human effort.

This cutting-edge tool is exclusively available to subscribers of the $200 per month ChatGPT Pro plan. Deep research functions by analyzing a wide range of online content, including text, images, and PDFs. The response generation process can vary, taking anywhere from five to thirty minutes, during which users can monitor its progress through a dedicated activity sidebar. Currently, the reports are primarily text-based, but OpenAI has plans to incorporate visual elements like images and data charts in the near future.

However, despite its remarkable features, deep research is not without its drawbacks. OpenAI has cautioned users that, similar to other large language models, this tool may occasionally produce inaccurate information and can have difficulty distinguishing between reliable sources and mere speculation. This issue of accuracy raises valid concerns regarding the dependability of the reports it generates, particularly in scientific domains.

While deep research can significantly streamline the process of gathering information, users should remain vigilant and double-check the validity of its conclusions. As OpenAI accelerates the advancement of its AI tools, the importance of careful oversight and critical assessment becomes increasingly vital to maintain the quality and trustworthiness of the information generated.