OpenAI has introduced a new lightweight version of its ChatGPT deep research tool, designed to deliver faster, more cost-effective responses while preserving the depth and quality users expect. Powered by the optimized o4-mini model, this version offers nearly the same intelligence as the original deep research tool but at a significantly reduced operational cost, enabling broader accessibility across user tiers.
The lightweight deep research tool generates concise yet well-structured research reports by scouring the web and synthesizing data with logical citations. While the original deep research mode-reserved mainly for paid subscribers – produces detailed, extensive reports, the new version provides shorter responses without compromising on accuracy or depth. Importantly, once users reach their monthly limits on the full deep research tool, their queries automatically switch to the lightweight model.
This rollout expands access to a wider audience: free-tier ChatGPT users can now perform up to five lightweight deep research tasks per month, while Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers enjoy increased task limits. Pro users, for example, receive up to 250 combined queries across both versions, a substantial increase from previous allowances. Enterprise and educational users are set to gain access shortly, with usage limits aligned with Team and Plus plans.
OpenAI emphasizes that the lightweight model’s cost efficiency is crucial, given the company’s high expenses – running into tens of millions of dollars monthly – to process user interactions. By reducing costs, OpenAI aims to encourage wider adoption of advanced AI-driven research capabilities without sacrificing user experience.This development comes amid an intensifying race among AI giants like Google, Microsoft, and xAI to enhance chatbot research tools with improved reasoning, problem-solving, and self-fact-checking abilities. OpenAI’s lightweight deep research tool represents a strategic move to democratize access to powerful AI research while managing infrastructure costs.