Local Search: ChatGPT and AI Overviews | Street Fight
In this week’s Streets Ahead update, SOCi discusses the newly launched search feature in ChatGPT and the rise of AI Overviews for Google local search results. OpenAI has introduced a new feature that brings real-time web search capabilities to ChatGPT, marking a significant upgrade from its previous reliance solely on pre-trained knowledge. Launched as SearchGPT, this functionality enables ChatGPT to pull live data directly from the internet to answer user queries, making responses more current and relevant by tapping into the latest updates and developments.
Designed to meet the demand for real-time information, SearchGPT proves especially valuable in areas where timely insights are essential, like news, stock market trends, scientific research, and technology. This new capability transforms ChatGPT from a static model into a dynamic tool that delivers answers reflective of the most recent information available. A key advantage of SearchGPT is its source attribution feature, which lets users verify the origins of the data in responses.
The inclusion of source attributions addresses concerns around AI accuracy and transparency. By displaying sources, ChatGPT encourages users to verify information, fostering a culture of accountability and responsible information-sharing. This move strengthens trust in AI tools and could drive wider adoption of AI technology in the future.
Why This Matters
The integration of search in ChatGPT represents a major advancement in AI chatbot functionality, directly overcoming a key limitation: the ability to access timely information. Previously, language models depended on static training data, which restricted their ability to reflect real-world changes. With this update, ChatGPT can now support more dynamic use cases, from tracking ongoing events to handling complex queries that require the latest insights.
This enhancement broadens ChatGPT’s utility in professional settings where decision-making depends on current, accurate information. With access to real-time data, ChatGPT becomes an even more valuable resource for business analysts, researchers, journalists, and others who need up-to-the-minute information for informed decision-making. This shift adds significant value for users tackling complex tasks, expanding ChatGPT’s reliability across diverse fields.
The Local SEO Guide team recently conducted an in-depth analysis of AI-generated overviews in search results and their potential impact on local search visibility. Andrew Shotland observes that while AI continues to advance in search technology, its presence in local search applications remains somewhat limited. For instance, popular local queries like “restaurants near me” often don’t trigger AI-generated summaries, indicating that AI’s role in local search is still evolving.
In particular, zip code-based queries for restaurants or bars often produce AI overviews in a list-style summary, pointing to areas where AI is beginning to play a more active role in local search experiences.
Why This Matters
This study highlights the importance of understanding AI’s current role in local search and its future potential—a critical consideration for businesses and marketers looking to optimize their online visibility. Shotland’s findings indicate that, despite technological advances, AI-generated overviews are selectively applied in local searches, underscoring the need for marketers to stay informed about where and how AI is being integrated.
