The search capability of ChatGPT, which allows the chatbot to access up-to-date information from the internet, is rapidly gaining traction in Europe. According to OpenAI Ireland Limited, the average number of active users for this feature reached 41.3 million per month in the six months leading up to March 31, 2025. In comparison, the previous six months saw only 11.2 million users. This information was reported by TechCrunch.

This data is disclosed by OpenAI in accordance with the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), which governs the operations of major online platforms in Europe. Under this law, services with over 45 million active monthly users must provide an opt-out for recommendation algorithms, grant access to certain data for researchers and authorities, and undergo external audits. If the current growth rate continues, ChatGPT Search may fall under these regulations.

Violating DSA rules could result in fines of up to 6% of the company's global revenue or even a temporary ban from operating within the EU.

Despite its rapid growth, ChatGPT Search remains far behind the market leader—Google. Estimates suggest that the number of search queries on Google far exceeds those on ChatGPT by hundreds of times. Surveys indicate that only 8% of users are willing to use ChatGPT as their primary search engine.

Moreover, ChatGPT Search has its drawbacks—particularly concerning accuracy. Studies show that it often makes errors when searching for articles or processing news, even when it has access to licensed sources.