OpenAI has made a significant change by offering its powerful “Deep Research” tool to free ChatGPT users for the first time. Previously only available to paying subscribers, this tool can automatically research complex topics and create detailed reports with citations.
The free version comes with tight restrictions – just 5 queries per month. This lightweight version is powered by a version of the OpenAI o4-mini model, which the company says is significantly cheaper to operate while maintaining similar depth and quality to the original tool that runs on a version of the o3 model.
Paid users will continue to get more access, with Plus, Team, Enterprise, and Edu users receiving 25 queries monthly, while Pro users get 250. Once paid users hit their limit for the full version, they’ll automatically switch to using the lightweight version.
The Deep Research tool works by browsing the web, analyzing information from hundreds of sources, and creating structured reports with citations. This process typically takes between 5 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the question. Users can also attach files or spreadsheets to provide additional context for their research questions.
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Industry watchers view this move as OpenAI’s response to competition from Perplexity, which already offers similar research capabilities to its free users. While five monthly queries is relatively low, it gives users a chance to experience the tool’s capabilities, potentially encouraging upgrades to paid plans.
The rollout began in late April 2025 and is gradually expanding to all users. The update has generally been well-received as a step toward making advanced AI research tools more accessible, though some users have commented on the low query limit for free users compared to competitors.
This development reflects a broader trend in the AI industry, where companies are increasingly equipping their assistants with more sophisticated analytical and research capabilities. For many knowledge workers in fields like finance, science, and law who need thorough and reliable information, tools like Deep Research could significantly streamline their workflow.
