Using Personalized Shopping Features in ChatGPT Search

2025-04-30

OpenAI's ChatGPT Search now provides product recommendations, images, reviews, and direct purchase links tailored specifically to your queries—streamlining online shopping without ads or sponsored placements.

OpenAI’s recent update to ChatGPT Search is transforming online shopping by integrating personalized product discovery directly into the chatbot. Users no longer need to navigate between multiple browser tabs or sift through ad-heavy search results. Instead, they can receive curated product options, visual details, and direct purchase links—all within a single conversation. This upgrade is available for Free, Plus, Pro users, and even logged-out sessions, making it accessible globally wherever ChatGPT is supported.

Access Personalized Shopping in ChatGPT Search

Entering shopping-related questions, such as asking for the best headphones under $100 or searching for pet clothing, will prompt ChatGPT to display visually organized product carousels. These results include images, concise descriptions, pricing, customer reviews, and purchase links to external retailers. ChatGPT interprets your query using the current conversation context and, for eligible users, preferences stored via its memory function. This means recommendations are customized to your specific needs (like budget, style, or brand preferences) rather than generic best-sellers or paid placements.

OpenAI’s model selects products using structured metadata from third-party sources, including up-to-date pricing, product details, and aggregated reviews. For example, if you mention a maximum price or preferred style, ChatGPT prioritizes these factors in the displayed results. Product cards may also feature tags like "budget-friendly" or "most popular," generated based on common features mentioned in reviews—not through any advertising or sponsorship agreements.

Detailed Instructions for Using the Shopping Feature

Step 1: Enter a shopping-related query in ChatGPT Search. Phrase your request conversationally, such as “Find me noise-canceling headphones under $100” or “Show me winter coats for dogs.” The more specific your input, the better the results will match your needs.

Step 2: Review the displayed product carousel. Each card typically shows an image, simplified product name, price, and a summary of user reviews. You might also see feature tags or star ratings that provide a quick sense of value or popularity.

Step 3: Click on a product card to open a sidebar with expanded details. Here, you can compare prices across multiple merchants, read comprehensive descriptions, and access additional reviews or ratings. The sidebar includes direct links to purchase from external retailer websites.

Step 4: Refine your search by clarifying preferences in the chat. If initial results don’t meet expectations, specify new criteria (e.g., “Show me wireless options only”). ChatGPT will update suggestions accordingly.

Step 5: Use ChatGPT’s memory feature (available for Plus and Pro users outside the EEA, UK, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein) to streamline future searches. ChatGPT recalls previous shopping preferences, such as favorite brands or disliked product types, and applies them automatically to new queries. You can manage, update, or clear this memory at any time to maintain control over your data.

Step 6: Check citations and sources. For transparency, ChatGPT now provides multiple references for product details and reviews. Before making a purchase decision, hover over or click these links to verify information directly with reputable websites.

Additional Features and Tips

  • Popular Searches and Autocomplete: As you type in the search box, ChatGPT suggests trending or timely queries to help you quickly discover new products or complete your requests.
  • WhatsApp Integration: ChatGPT Search is now accessible via WhatsApp. Send a message to receive product suggestions and real-time answers on mobile devices.
  • Ad-Free Experience: Product recommendations are independently selected without ads or paid placements. OpenAI currently does not earn commissions from purchases made through ChatGPT Search.
  • Pricing and Merchant Accuracy: Prices come from third-party providers and may change. Always verify final pricing, shipping, and return policies on the retailer’s website before completing a purchase.
  • Feedback Mechanism: Use the thumbs-up or thumbs-down icons in ChatGPT or fill out a feedback form to report issues or suggest improvements. OpenAI actively optimizes the shopping experience based on user input.

Understanding Product Selection and Personalization

ChatGPT’s shopping recommendations rely on a combination of structured product data, user intent, and—if