ChatGPT Search Grows Rapidly in Europe Amid DSA Compliance

ChatGPT Search, a feature by OpenAI that integrates real-time web information into chatbot responses, is experiencing significant growth in Europe. According to a report from OpenAI Ireland Limited, the platform reached approximately 41.3 million average monthly active recipients by March 2025. This marks a substantial increase from the 11.2 million users reported in October 2024.

This growth trajectory is crucial as it aligns with the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA requires platforms with over 45 million users to adhere to specific regulations, including allowing users to opt out of recommendation systems, sharing data with researchers, and undergoing external audits. Non-compliance could result in fines of up to 6% of global turnover or even temporary suspension in the EU.

Despite its rapid growth, ChatGPT Search still faces challenges in reliability compared to established search engines like Google. Studies have shown that AI-powered search engines, including ChatGPT, can be less accurate depending on the query. For instance, one study found that ChatGPT incorrectly identified 67% of searched-for articles, highlighting the need for ongoing improvements in AI search capabilities.

The competitive landscape is also noteworthy. While ChatGPT Search has made inroads against incumbents like Google, it still handles significantly fewer searches. A poll indicated that 8% of users would choose ChatGPT over Google as their primary search engine, but Google remains the dominant player, processing 373 times more searches than ChatGPT.

As ChatGPT Search continues to grow, it will be essential for OpenAI to address these reliability issues and ensure compliance with the DSA. This will not only help maintain user trust but also solidify its position in the competitive AI search market. For tech leaders and businesses, understanding these dynamics is crucial for leveraging AI advancements effectively.