Gone are the days of typing in specific keywords and struggling to find the information you need. Microsoft Bing is on the cusp of releasing its ChatGPT integration, which will allow users to ask questions in a natural way and get a tailored search experience that will reshape how we explore the internet.
I got a preview of Bing’s ChatGPT integration and managed to get some research in before it was shut off. Here’s a look at what to expect:
Meet the new Bing
Bing’s ChatGPT integration will be called the new Bing. Microsoft is positioning it as an evolution of the search engine, asking you to think of it as “an research assistant, personal planner, and creative partner at your side. The integration will be powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4, a faster version of ChatGPT.
The search bar is now a chatbox
The blank search bar is replaced with a large text box with a prompt inviting you to ask it anything. You’ll have 1000 characters to write your question, which will allow for a good amount of detail in your request. You’ll be able to provide context, provide specific instructions, or list examples.
Bing does research for you
Unlike ChatGPT, which is trained on data collected up to 2021, the new Bing will be able to access current information.
When you ask a question, the AI will interpret it and make several searches related to your request. It will then compile the results and write a summary for you. Bing will highlight particular phrases and cite where it got that information from, allowing you to verify the claim.
Bing can make plans for you
Bing will be able to process complex tasks that you’d usually have to piece together yourself. You can give it personal requirements, like your meal preferences, budget constraints, location, or time requirements and Bing will adapt its response to your needs and interests. You could get Bing to generate inspiration for a meal plan or travel itinerary.
You can ask Bing to be creative
The new Bing has a new level of creativity and imagination. Since the AI can understand and respond to natural language queries, you’ll be able to ask Bing to take on creative tasks previously beyond the realm of a search engine. You could ask Bing to write a rhyming poem for your cousin’s birthday or create a short story featuring your friends.
You can interact with Bing like a chatbot
Bing will be able to carry on a conversation with you for a human-like research experience. It’ll prompt you to start talking to it too. After I asked Bing about popular movies from 2022, it gave some suggested followup responses. It replied to its own question and asked a followup question of its own.
You can still search the traditional way
The search results page won’t be going away entirely. You’ll be able to toggle between search and chat from the toolbar.
How do I get the new Bing?
Once the feature is live, you can join the waitlist at bing.com/new. You’ll get an email when you’ve been granted access. Expect delays as Microsoft and OpenAI scale their servers.
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