OpenAI rolls out a ‘lightweight’ version of its ChatGPT deep research tool

Tech Crunch - Apr 24th, 2025
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OpenAI has introduced a new 'lightweight' version of its ChatGPT deep research tool designed to compile research reports on various topics. Announced on Thursday, this tool is now available to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users, with free users gaining access immediately. Powered by the o4-mini model, the lightweight version is not as robust as the full deep research tool but is more cost-effective, allowing OpenAI to increase usage limits. Responses generated by this model are expected to be shorter while maintaining the quality users expect. Once the limits for the original deep research tool are reached, queries will automatically switch to this new lightweight version. Enterprise and educational users will also receive access next week.

The introduction of this tool comes amid a surge of similar deep research tools from other tech giants like Google's Gemini, Microsoft's Copilot, and xAI's Grok. These tools utilize reasoning AI models capable of complex problem-solving and self-fact-checking, crucial for thorough subject research. OpenAI's strategy with the lightweight tool aims to enhance access and affordability for users across different subscription levels, potentially broadening the scope of AI-assisted research. This development signifies OpenAI's commitment to expanding its toolkit in the competitive landscape of AI-driven research tools, aiming to balance cost with performance while meeting the growing demand for accessible AI technology.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article effectively presents a timely and relevant development in AI technology by introducing OpenAI's new lightweight deep research tool. It accurately reports the tool's availability and benefits, providing a clear and concise overview. However, the article could benefit from greater source diversity and transparency to enhance its credibility and depth. While the story touches on the broader context of AI advancements, it lacks detailed analysis of potential impacts and controversies, limiting its engagement and public interest value. Overall, the article is informative and accessible but could be strengthened by including more perspectives and exploring broader implications.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story accurately reports that OpenAI is introducing a lightweight version of its ChatGPT deep research tool and provides details about its availability to different user tiers, including Plus, Team, Pro, and free users. The story's claim that this version is powered by the o4-mini model and is less costly aligns with the information provided by OpenAI. However, the article could benefit from more precise information on the capabilities of the o4-mini model compared to the original deep research model. Additionally, while the story mentions competitors like Google's Gemini and Microsoft's Copilot, it lacks detailed verification of these tools' features and capabilities.

7
Balance

The article presents a balanced view of OpenAI’s new tool, mentioning both its advantages, such as cost-effectiveness and increased availability, and its limitations, like shorter response lengths. However, it primarily focuses on OpenAI's perspective and lacks in-depth discussion of potential downsides or criticisms, such as how the reduced capabilities might affect users. The mention of competitors provides some balance, suggesting a broader context, but the article could include more viewpoints, such as user testimonials or expert opinions on the implications of this tool.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and concise, effectively communicating the key points about the new tool's introduction and capabilities. The structure is logical, with a straightforward presentation of information. However, some technical terms, like 'o4-mini model,' could benefit from further explanation to aid readers unfamiliar with AI terminology. Overall, the article maintains a neutral tone and is accessible to a general audience.

6
Source quality

The article cites OpenAI as its primary source, which is authoritative regarding its products. However, it lacks external sources or expert opinions that could provide a more comprehensive view or verify the claims made by OpenAI. The reliance on a single source limits the depth of the article's analysis and could affect its perceived impartiality. Including insights from industry analysts or users could enhance the story's credibility.

5
Transparency

The article provides a basic explanation of the new tool and its intended benefits but lacks transparency in explaining the methodology behind the o4-mini model's development or the specific criteria used to determine its effectiveness. There is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest, such as financial ties OpenAI might have with the reporting outlet. Greater transparency about the tool's development process and its comparison with competitors would improve the article.

Sources

  1. https://openai.com/index/introducing-deep-research/
  2. https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/24/openai-rolls-out-a-lightweight-version-of-its-chatgpt-deep-research-tool/
  3. https://www.maginative.com/article/openais-deep-research-is-now-available-to-all-chatgpt-users/
  4. https://help.openai.com/en/articles/10500283-deep-research-faq
  5. https://www.neowin.net/news/openai-launches-lightweight-version-of-deep-research-for-free-users/