OpenAI has launched a lightweight version of its Deep Research tool, now available to all ChatGPT users, including free and Plus users, as well as those with Team, Pro, and Enterprise plans. This new version is based on OpenAI’s o4-mini model, and while it is not as advanced as the original Deep Research, it still offers the ability to perform live web research and gather data from across the internet.
Key Features of the Lightweight Version:
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Cost-Effective and Efficient: The lighter version puts less load on OpenAI's Large Language Models (LLMs) and is significantly cheaper to operate.
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Shorter but Insightful Responses: While responses will generally be shorter than those from the original version, they will still provide meaningful insights.
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Online Research: The tool can gather live data from the web, making it useful for tasks like product comparisons, market analysis, or fact-checking.
How It Differs from the Original Version:
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The original Deep Research tool is powered by OpenAI's o3 model, tuned for detailed tasks like extended processing, reference gathering, and fact-checking.
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The lightweight version offers quick insights, but with some limitations in depth and complexity compared to the full version.
Usage Limits:
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Free Users: Can make up to 5 Deep Research queries per month.
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Plus, Team, Enterprise, and Education Users: Receive 25 queries per month.
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Pro Users: Can run up to 250 queries per month.
Once a user hits their limit for the full version, the system will automatically switch to the lightweight version without interrupting the experience.
How to Use the Deep Research Tool:
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Choose ‘Deep Research’ from the message composer in ChatGPT.
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Type your query or upload relevant files (e.g., spreadsheets, PDFs) for added context.
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The tool will analyze and gather information from online sources, providing a structured report.
Plans for Future Updates:
OpenAI intends to further enhance Deep Research with additional features, including visual elements like charts and data visualizations, which will make reports more user-friendly and easier to interpret.
In summary, the lightweight Deep Research tool is an accessible and efficient way for users to conduct online research with minimal system load, all while being mindful of resource usage and query limits.
