Last updated July 4, 2023
In AI News & Update

OpenAI disables ‘Browse’ Feature after releasing it on ChatGPT App

Owing to data leak, OpenAI disables the browse feature on ChatGPT within two weeks of its release

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Published on July 4, 2023

by Vandana Nair

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In less than two weeks of releasing the beta mode of browse feature on ChatGPT app, the company announced that it has temporarily disabled the feature. The browse feature was showing content to users that the company had not intended to. OpenAI explained that if a user asks for a full text of a URL, ChatGPT was showing that information, and that they have retracted the feature till they fix the problem.

User Privacy Issues Prevails

The identified problem goes against the content owner’s privacy, a problem that has got OpenAI at crossroads with a number of companies. Data privacy issues have been the main concern for companies banning the usage of ChatGPT. Countries such as Japan have also warned OpenAI against using user’s sensitive data.

Interestingly, in a blog released by OpenAI highlighting the learnings from Sam Altman and his team’s global tour, the company said that they will explore ways for creators, publishers and content producers to benefit from their technology. The bug highlighted in the browser feature goes against it. The company also reiterated that they do not train on customer data and that ChatGPT users can opt-out from using their data for training.

OpenAI has rolled out the ‘browse with Bing’ feature in beta phase for ChatGPT Plus subscribers, where a user gets access to real-time data. Since the rollout, users have been giving feedback on the feature. The browse feature was available as part of ChatGPT Plus which comes at a subscription of $20 a month.

Banking on Feedback

OpenAI has been heavily banking on user feedback for rolling out new features and to further set their future plans for resolving their cybersecurity and AI safety issues. It was no different for the browse feature as well which was released in beta mode in a bid to learn from people’s feedback. By giving power to users, OpenAI is showcasing itself as a brand that believes in a democratised model, where everyone has a say in their product improvement. However, in the process, the actual issue of data security is still not being addressed.

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Vandana Nair

As a rare blend of engineering, MBA, and journalism degree, Vandana Nair brings a unique combination of technical know-how, business acumen, and storytelling skills to the table. Her insatiable curiosity for all things startups, businesses, and AI technologies ensures that there's always a fresh and insightful perspective to her reporting.