What to know

  • ChatGPT search user numbers in Europe surged from 11.2 million to 41.3 million in six months.
  • This rapid growth may soon subject OpenAI to stricter EU Digital Services Act (DSA) regulations.
  • Despite its expansion, ChatGPT search still trails far behind Google in market share.
  • Studies highlight accuracy issues with ChatGPT search, especially for news and licensed content.

OpenAI's ChatGPT search function has experienced a sharp increase in popularity across Europe. According to data from OpenAI Ireland Limited, the number of monthly active users rose from 11.2 million to 41.3 million between October 2024 and March 2025.

This growth reflects a growing interest in AI-powered search tools that allow users to retrieve up-to-date web information through conversational interfaces.

The surge in user numbers brings ChatGPT search closer to the threshold for regulation under the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA sets out rules for large online platforms, including requirements to let users opt out of recommendation systems and to share certain data with researchers.

If ChatGPT search is classified as a 'very large online platform,' OpenAI could face stricter obligations. Non-compliance with the DSA could result in fines of up to 6% of global turnover or even temporary suspension in the EU.

Despite its rapid growth, ChatGPT search remains a minor player compared to Google. Surveys indicate that only about 8% of users prefer ChatGPT as their main search tool, while Google continues to dominate the market, handling hundreds of times more searches than ChatGPT.

Accuracy remains a concern for ChatGPT search. Studies have found that the chatbot makes significant errors when identifying articles and handling news content, including material from publishers with licensing agreements.

One study reported a 67% error rate in ChatGPT's ability to correctly identify articles in search results. These findings suggest that while ChatGPT search is gaining traction, it still faces challenges in delivering reliable information, especially for complex or sensitive queries.

As ChatGPT search continues to expand in Europe, OpenAI will need to address both regulatory requirements and the accuracy of its search results to maintain user trust and comply with evolving digital laws.

Via: TechCrunch