OpenAI has launched a new AI agent called Deep Research, which enhances the capabilities of its predecessor, Operator, by combining advanced reasoning with web search to produce well-cited research papers quickly. This tool has the potential to perform economically valuable work and is already demonstrating significant advancements in AI capabilities, with plans for broader access in the future.
OpenAI has recently introduced a new AI agent called Deep Research, which builds upon the capabilities of its predecessor, Operator. This agent combines the advanced reasoning abilities of the O3 model with the functionality to search the web. Deep Research can conduct thorough investigations on various topics and return a fully cited research paper in a matter of minutes, mimicking the work of a PhD researcher. Notably, Sam Altman mentioned that Deep Research is already capable of performing a small percentage of economically valuable work, which translates to trillions of dollars in potential value.
Mark Chen, OpenAI’s head of research, emphasized the importance of developing autonomous AI agents that can perform tasks independently and contribute to the discovery of new knowledge. This aligns with OpenAI’s long-term goal of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). The concept of an “intelligence explosion,” where AI can improve itself recursively, was discussed, highlighting the potential for rapid advancements in AI capabilities.
The video showcases Deep Research in action, demonstrating how users can input complex queries and receive clarifying questions to refine their requests. The agent then initiates its research process, browsing various sources and synthesizing information. After a brief period, Deep Research returns with a well-structured report that includes tables and clear recommendations, showcasing its ability to handle intricate research tasks efficiently.
A personal story shared by Felipe Millan, an OpenAI employee, illustrates the real-world impact of Deep Research. When faced with a challenging medical decision regarding his wife’s cancer treatment, he utilized the tool to gather insights and studies that helped inform their choices. This experience underscored the transformative potential of AI in critical situations, providing users with confidence and clarity when navigating complex information.
Deep Research is built on the O3 model, which has undergone extensive training to enhance its browsing and reasoning capabilities. The agent has demonstrated impressive performance on various benchmarks, achieving significantly higher scores than previous models. Currently, Deep Research is available to Pro users for $200 a month, with plans for broader access in the future. The rapid development of AI tools like Deep Research reflects an exciting era in technology, with the promise of further innovations on the horizon.