OpenAI is adding a product search feature to its ChatGPT AI platform. The new "Product Search & Discovery" feature, which will be available soon, will turn ChatGPT into a shopping assistant. Users will not only be able to get answers to their questions in conversations, but also receive product suggestions with images, prices, reviews and links to purchase. This gives retailers a whole new way to get their products seen - without paid advertising or SEO competition.
From Text Assistant to Personal Shopping Assistant
Until now, ChatGPT has mainly been known for text generation, knowledge transfer and creative tasks. With the latest update, the tool is evolving into a shopping assistant. Retailers can provide structured product feeds, based on which ChatGPT suggests relevant offers. The special feature: The product recommendations are fully integrated into the conversation, making them seem more natural and trustworthy than traditional advertising. Other AI platforms, such as Amazon and Perplexity, have already introduced similar features - but OpenAI is deliberately focusing on a seamless, conversation-based user experience.
In addition to product search, OpenAI has also improved ChatGPT's memory function. The AI can now remember previous conversations. This allows for recurring conversations and personalised product recommendations. This makes ChatGPT more than just an assistant - it becomes a personal shopping advisor. The new features are currently being rolled out and will soon be available to Plus, Pro, Free and even logged out users.
Why Companies Should Rely on ChatGPT Now
The Product Search & Discovery feature is of particular interest to small and medium sized online businesses. Unlike Google and Amazon, there are no paid adverts and no ranking battles. Instead, ChatGPT suggests products that match the content of the question. As it will be free to use and the feature is still in its introductory phase, it pays to get started early. By taking action now, you can ensure visibility in a channel that is not yet very competitive.
How to Optimize Your Product Feed
To ensure that your products appear in ChatGPT responses, you need to prepare your product data feed carefully:
Clear product titles that are understandable and concise
Meaningful descriptions that highlight benefits and special features
Up-to-date information on pricing, availability and variants
Structured data using Schema.org markup
Technical basics such as HTTPS, mobile optimisation and fast load times
ChatGPT understands the importance of content as well as keywords. Products must therefore be convincing in terms of content - just like in a real consultation.
GAIO Instead of SEO - Rethinking Visibility
With the introduction of product search, it is clear that those who rely solely on search engine optimisation could lose out. While SEO is tailored to traditional search engines, GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) or GAIO (Generative AI Optimisation) is now coming to the fore - optimisation specifically for generative AI systems. Companies should therefore structure their content so that it can be understood and used by AI platforms such as ChatGPT. This includes:
Registering with Bing Webmaster Tools
Regularly updating the sitemap
Consistent use of structured data
Focus on technical cleanliness and semantic clarity
ChatGPT uses many signals directly from the Bing index. If you are well positioned there, you will increase your chances of being visible in ChatGPT.
Rumors of a Partnership with Shopify
The launch of product search in ChatGPT has led to speculation about a possible collaboration with Shopify. A recent code leak suggests that OpenAI is already testing native shopping functionality with Shopify. Should an official integration take place, product search and checkout in ChatGPT could merge into a seamless shopping experience - fast, intuitive and right in the conversation.
Conclusion
The launch of product search in ChatGPT clearly shows that if you want to remain visible in digital commerce in the future, you need to align your strategy with AI platforms. Traditional SEO measures alone are no longer enough - structured data, semantic content and generative optimisation tailored to natural user interactions are required. We can help you align your strategy with the requirements of AI platforms such as ChatGPT. Contact us at info@projx.de for an individual consultation!
Sources
https://elephants-monkeys.ch/chatgpt-startet-shopping-funktion-was-haendler-jetzt-wissen-muessen/
