AI Smart Search: TikTok tests ChatGPT-powered search feature

AI Smart Search feature is currently limited, with AI results only appearing for specific search queries
A representational image of the TikTok logo.
A representational image of the TikTok logo.

TikTok, a popular social media platform, is taking a major step forward in enhancing in-app search functionality by testing AI-generative search results using ChatGPT. 

This innovative feature, called “AI Smart Search,” displays a snippet of AI results pages, providing users with quick and relevant answers to their queries. 

The feature is currently limited, with AI results only appearing for specific search queries like recipes or topics such as "best laptops 2024". 

Read more: Windows 11 Snipping Tool gets a powerful upgrade with Bing search feature

However, it marks a significant step forward in efforts to improve TikTok's search functionality, which has become an essential aspect of the app for many users, especially the younger generation. 

TikTok has been expanding its search capabilities over the past year, adding features like Google search results and links to external websites like Wikipedia and IMDb. The platform aims to expand user habits and preferences, as many young users rely on TikTok as a search engine for tips and information. 

The introduction of AI-generated search results takes this a step further, providing users with concise and relevant answers to their queries. While the features are still in the testing phase, it has the potential to revolutionise app discovery and make TikTok an even more indispensable tool for its users.