ChatGPT’s Deep Research now for free users, but with a catch

OpenAI introduces a ‘lightweight’ version of Deep Research for free ChatGPT users, limited to five uses per month, while expanding access for paid tiers.

Well, well, well, looks like OpenAI’s finally tossing a little something to the free-tier ChatGPT crowd. Starting today, they’re getting a nibble of that sleek Deep Research feature—though, let’s be real, it’s more like a sampler than the full buffet. This ‘lightweight’ version, running on ChatGPT o4-mini, is basically OpenAI’s way of whispering, ‘Here’s a little treat, but don’t expect the caviar.’ And hey, they even included a graph to show how it measures up to the original. Cute touch, right?

But here’s the plot twist: free users are limited to five uses a month. Yep, just five. So, unless you’re in a real bind, maybe save those clicks for something truly epic. On the flip side, the paying crowd—Pro, Plus, Teams, and Enterprise users—are seeing their limits get a boost. But even they’re not swimming in unlimited access. Hit your limit, and boom, you’re back to the lightweight version with the rest of us. Some sharp-eyed folks on X are already side-eyeing this move, especially when you stack it up against what Google’s dishing out with Gemini.

For the uninitiated, Deep Research is like having a tiny, over-caffeinated research assistant in your pocket. Throw it a question, and it’ll dive into the web, gather facts, and hand you a neat little report complete with citations. Ideal for tackling the heavy stuff, not so much for asking about the weather. And fair warning: it’s not instant. You’ll need to brew a cup of coffee (or two) while it works its magic.

This update rolls out just after OpenAI bumped up the minutes for Plus, Teams, and Enterprise users on ChatGPT-o3 and o4-mini. So, it’s a bit of a rollercoaster—some are riding high with more, others are making do with less, and a few are just thrilled to be part of the ride.