OpenAI Introduces ‘Shopping Research’ in ChatGPT

OpenAI unveils 'Shopping Research' in ChatGPT, aiding users in product analysis.

OpenAI has unveiled a new feature called ‘Shopping Research’ in ChatGPT, designed to analyze and find suitable products on behalf of the user.

“Instead of browsing dozens of websites, you can simply describe the desired product’s characteristics. For instance: ‘Find the quietest wireless vacuum cleaner for a small apartment,'” the startup’s blog states.

The tool asks clarifying questions, conducts in-depth online research, analyzes sources, and relies on existing user information.

“For example, if ChatGPT knows you are interested in gaming, it might consider this when selecting a new laptop,” the developers emphasized.

‘Shopping Research’ was launched on November 24 for all registered users.

“To assist with holiday shopping, we offer virtually unlimited use for all plans during the festive days,” the company noted.

OpenAI stated that the service is particularly effective in categories with numerous details, such as electronics or home appliances. For simple queries, the chatbot provides a quick response.

“But when you need depth—comparisons, constraints, trade-offs—shopping research takes a few minutes to provide a more detailed, well-thought-out answer,” the startup clarified.

How to Use

To use the ‘Shopping Research’ feature, you need to ask a question about the desired product. ChatGPT will automatically suggest using the new tool.

Upon launching the service, a special visual interface opens, allowing users to interact and provide feedback on the suggested options to guide the research.

A few minutes after launching the tool, the user receives a personalized guide with the best options, key differences, trade-offs, and current information from reliable retailers.

To purchase a product, one must visit the retailer’s website. In the future, purchasing directly in ChatGPT will be possible.

‘Shopping Research’ operates on an adapted GPT-5 mini model. The company acknowledged that it may make errors, so visiting the seller’s website for the most accurate information is recommended.

Hardware Device

OpenAI has completed work on the first prototypes of hardware devices, as reported by the company’s CEO, Sam Altman.

“I can’t believe how amazing and exciting this work is,” the entrepreneur emphasized.

Altman participated in a discussion alongside former Apple design chief Jony Ive and Laurene Powell, the wife of the late Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs.

In May, OpenAI announced the acquisition of Ive’s startup, which focuses on creating AI devices. The deal was valued at $6.5 billion.

Prior to this, the entrepreneurs had secretly worked for two years on a confidential project—a new gadget that “allows consumers to go beyond screens.”

In May, Altman presented employees with a preliminary overview of the devices he is developing with Ive and shared plans to release 100 million “AI companions.” He hopes they will become part of people’s daily lives.

During the discussion, the head of OpenAI declined to answer questions about what exactly his company is creating. He hinted that the team aims for “a more serene atmosphere” compared to smartphones, which “can be likened to walking through Times Square.”

“It’s more like sitting in the most beautiful cabin by a lake in the mountains and just enjoying the peace and quiet,” he added.

The new device will be able to perform tasks for the user over extended periods, filter information, and understand when something is truly important. It will “know everything you’ve ever thought, read, or said.”

Legal Disputes

OpenAI has been prohibited from using the word cameo for naming any products or features in the Sora app.

U.S. District Judge Eumi K. Lee issued the order on November 24. Similar words like Kameo or CameoVideo are also banned.

In October, Cameo filed a lawsuit against OpenAI for trademark infringement. The platform allows users to purchase personalized videos from celebrities.

“We disagree with the assertion that anyone can claim exclusive ownership of the word ‘cameo,’ and we look forward to continuing to defend our position in court,” a representative of OpenAI stated.

The order expires on December 22. A hearing on the matter of a permanent injunction is scheduled for December 19.

In November, OpenAI launched group chats in ChatGPT for users worldwide. The feature allows interaction within the chatbot.