New York: OpenAI has unveiled a more cost-efficient, lightweight version of its ChatGPT deep research tool, aimed at delivering faster and more affordable responses while maintaining the same high standards of depth and quality in research. Powered by OpenAI’s o4-mini model, this new version is designed to optimize reasoning and data synthesis, making it both faster and less expensive to operate.
According to the company, “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 you’ve come to expect. Once limits for the original version of deep research are reached, queries automatically default to the lightweight version”.
ChatGPT’s Lightweight Deep Research Tool: Key Features and Accessibility
The upgraded tool is now available to users of ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro plans, with plans to expand access to Enterprise and educational users in the coming week. Additionally, OpenAI is offering free-tier users limited access to the lightweight version, providing up to five tasks per month. For paying subscribers, the model offers expanded usage limits, and the tool will seamlessly switch to its lightweight version when the original version reaches its limits.
Enhanced Efficiency for Broader Access
While responses from the lightweight version are more concise, they continue to deliver the structured logic, citations, and research integrity users expect from the original deep research tool. OpenAI highlights that this new model is significantly cheaper to serve, making it a more scalable option without sacrificing the user experience or quality of research.
The introduction of this lightweight model marks a strategic step by OpenAI in providing broader access to advanced AI-powered research while ensuring cost efficiency.
