OpenAI has introduced a lightweight version of its Deep Research tool within ChatGPT, making advanced research capabilities more accessible to a broader user base. This new variant utilizes the o4-mini model, designed to deliver faster and more cost-effective reports while maintaining the depth and quality of the original Deep Research feature.
Notably, this expansion includes free-tier users, who now have access to a limited number of ‘lightweight’ queries per month.
The standard Deep Research tool, powered by the larger o3 model, is known for its comprehensive analysis, compiling detailed reports by synthesising information from multiple online sources—a process that can take between 5 and 30 minutes depending on complexity. In contrast, the lightweight version aims for efficiency, providing shorter responses that still offer substantial insights.
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Context & Background
OpenAI’s Deep Research tool was initially launched in February 2025, offering ChatGPT Pro subscribers the ability to conduct complex internet research tasks by retrieving, analyzing, and synthesizing multiple online sources into comprehensive reports. This feature significantly reduced the time required for in-depth research, performing in minutes what would traditionally take hours. However, access was initially limited to Pro subscribers due to the tool’s intensive computational demands and associated costs.
Recognizing the demand for more accessible research tools, OpenAI developed the lightweight version powered by the o4-mini model. This iteration aims to provide faster and more cost-effective reports, enabling users across all subscription tiers, including free users, to benefit from advanced research capabilities. The introduction of this lightweight version marks a significant step in OpenAI’s efforts to democratize access to AI-driven research tools.
In This Story
OpenAI
OpenAI is an artificial intelligence research organization dedicated to developing and promoting friendly AI for the benefit of humanity. Known for creating advanced AI models like ChatGPT, OpenAI focuses on ensuring that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an AI language model developed by OpenAI, designed to generate human-like text based on user prompts. It has been widely adopted for various applications, including customer support, content creation, and research assistance.
Deep Research
Deep Research is a feature within ChatGPT that autonomously gathers and analyzes information from multiple online sources, providing comprehensive reports on complex topics. It aims to function at the level of a research analyst, significantly reducing the time required for in-depth research.
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