OpenAI Introduces Lightweight ChatGPT Research Tool

Apr 25, 2025
OpenAI has launched a lightweight version of its ChatGPT deep research tool, powered by the o4-mini model, available to all ChatGPT users.
OpenAI Introduces Lightweight ChatGPT Research Tool
Image: OpenAI
OpenAI has introduced a new lightweight version of its ChatGPT deep research tool, powered by the o4-mini model. This tool, which compiles research reports by scouring the web, is now available to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users, and will be accessible to free users starting today.

The lightweight version is designed to be nearly as intelligent as the original deep research tool but is significantly cheaper to serve. This cost efficiency allows OpenAI to increase usage limits for its users. Once the limits for the original version are reached, queries will automatically switch to the lightweight version.

OpenAI has announced that this feature will be extended to Enterprise and educational users next week, offering the same usage levels as Team users. The introduction of this tool comes amid a surge in deep research tools across various platforms, including Google's Gemini and Microsoft's Copilot.

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