ChatGPT's New Lightweight Deep Research Tool
OpenAI has launched a more accessible "lightweight" version of its ChatGPT deep research tool. This feature, which scours the web to compile research reports, is now available to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users, as well as free users.
This streamlined version is powered by OpenAI's o4-mini model. While not as comprehensive as the original deep research tool, OpenAI assures users that it maintains depth and quality while being more cost-effective and allowing for increased usage limits.
Shorter Responses, Same Depth
OpenAI explained on X (formerly Twitter) that responses from the lightweight version will generally be shorter while still providing the expected depth and quality. When usage limits for the original deep research are reached, queries will automatically default to the lightweight version.
The lightweight version of deep research is powered by a version of OpenAI o4-mini and is nearly as intelligent as the deep research people already know and love, while being significantly cheaper to serve.
Responses will typically be shorter while maintaining the depth and quality… pic.twitter.com/H2UD5GThVj
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) April 24, 2025
Competition in the AI Research Space
The launch of this lightweight tool comes amidst a surge of deep research tools integrated into chatbots, including Google's Gemini, Microsoft's Copilot, and xAI's Grok. These tools are driven by advanced reasoning AI models capable of problem-solving and fact-checking, crucial skills for in-depth research.
OpenAI plans to roll out the lightweight deep research feature to Enterprise and educational users next week, with the same usage levels as Team users.
