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ChatGPT Search Adoption Surges in Europe, Driven by OpenAI Feature
ChatGPT search, OpenAI’s web-browsing capability integrated within ChatGPT, is experiencing rapid growth in popularity across Europe. This feature allows the chatbot to access and utilize real-time information from the internet to enhance its responses.
Significant Increase in European User Base
According to a report from OpenAI Ireland Limited, one of OpenAI’s European Union divisions, ChatGPT search attracted approximately 41.3 million average monthly active recipients during the six-month period ending March 31. This represents a substantial increase from roughly 11.2 million average monthly active recipients in the preceding six-month period ending October 31, 2024.
DSA Compliance and Definition of Active Recipients
OpenAI regularly discloses data regarding ChatGPT search usage to adhere to the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA establishes regulations for various aspects of online services within European nations. It defines “monthly active recipients” as individuals who engage with a service at least once within a given month. This engagement includes exposure to information disseminated through the online interface of a platform, such as viewing or listening to content, or providing information.
Potential Regulatory Implications Under DSA
A provision within the DSA mandates that “very large” online platforms or search engines—defined as those exceeding 45 million average monthly recipients—must offer users options to opt out of recommendation algorithms and profiling. These platforms are also required to share specific data with researchers and authorities and undergo external audits. Considering its current growth trajectory, ChatGPT search may soon become subject to these stipulations.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Online platforms failing to comply with the DSA’s regulations may face penalties of up to 6% of their global annual revenue. Persistent non-compliance could result in temporary suspension of services within the EU.
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Competitive Landscape and Market Share
Since its introduction last year, ChatGPT Search has made inroads against established search engines like Google. A survey conducted in September indicated that 8% of respondents would favor ChatGPT over Google as their primary search tool. However, Google maintains a dominant position in the online search market, reportedly processing 373 times more searches than ChatGPT.
Concerns Regarding Reliability of AI Search Engines
Research indicates that ChatGPT search and other AI-powered search engines can be less dependable than conventional search methods, depending on the nature of the query. One study revealed that ChatGPT inaccurately identified 67% of articles sought. Another study highlighted accuracy issues related to ChatGPT’s handling of news content, including material from publishers with licensing agreements with OpenAI.