OpenAI Expands Access to ChatGPT Deep Research Feature

OpenAI Expands Access to ChatGPT Deep Research

OpenAI has announced the expansion of access to its Deep Research function within ChatGPT. While the feature was previously primarily reserved for Pro subscribers, it will now also be available for users of the free version and other subscription models – albeit in a modified form.

Deep Research: From the Pro Version to the Light Variant

The Deep Research function, introduced in Spring 2025 for Pro users, enables more comprehensive research through the Large Language Model (LLM) ChatGPT. It analyzes and synthesizes large amounts of information from the web and creates structured reports. It can also extract data from various file formats such as PDFs and images and provides source citations. Previously, the use of this feature was limited to 120 requests per month for Pro subscribers, while other subscriptions received only ten requests per month.

Due to the positive response, OpenAI has decided to make Deep Research available to a wider user base. In addition to the full version, there will be a so-called "Light version" in the future, which will be activated as soon as the monthly quota of regular Deep Research requests is exhausted.

The Light Version: Performance and Limitations

According to OpenAI, the Light version is based on a different model (04-mini) and is intended to be almost as intelligent as the full version. However, to reduce computational effort, it provides shorter answers. OpenAI emphasizes that the quality and thoroughness of the answers should be maintained despite the shorter format.

The use of the Light version is also limited. Users of the free ChatGPT version receive five Light requests per month. Plus, Team, Enterprise, and Education subscribers receive 15 Light requests in addition to their ten regular requests. Even Pro users, who pay 200 US dollars monthly, only receive 130 additional Light requests.

Different Quotas for Different Subscriptions

The number of available Deep Research requests varies depending on the subscription model:

- Free Version: 5 Light requests - Plus, Team, Enterprise, Education: 10 Full version requests + 15 Light requests - Pro: 120 Full version requests + 130 Light requests

Deep Research: Potential and Challenges

The expansion of access to Deep Research underscores the potential of AI-powered research tools. The automated analysis and synthesis of information can significantly accelerate and simplify the research process. At the same time, it is important to be aware of the limitations. Like any AI model, Deep Research is prone to errors and can lead to so-called "hallucinations," i.e., generating false or misleading information. Users should therefore always critically examine the results.

With the introduction of the Light version, OpenAI is enabling a larger user base to access this powerful function. However, the limitations in usage, even for paying customers, suggest that the operation of Deep Research is associated with considerable computing costs. It remains to be seen how the technology and the associated costs will develop in the future.

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