On April 24, 2025, OpenAI announced a new “lightweight” version of its ChatGPT deep research tool.
The update is now available for ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users. Free-tier users will also gain access starting today.
Just like the original deep research launch, it helps users gather research from across the web. It offers fast summaries and a smoother experience.
However, the sustained efficiency and cost reduction come with a catch: shorter responses.
Also read: OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Deep Research – AutoGPT
What Is the Lightweight Deep Research Tool?
The lightweight version uses a smaller model, OpenAI’s o4-mini. While it is less powerful than the full research version, it still delivers accurate and focused results.
OpenAI states that this version is cheaper to run. As a result, users can enjoy higher usage limits.
Therefore, when users hit their original limits, the system automatically switches to the lightweight tool.
The Payoff
More people are using AI tools for research. Google’s Gemini, Microsoft’s Copilot, and xAI’s Grok are already in this space.
These tools use reasoning AI models that can break down complex topics and verify facts.
Therefore, OpenAI’s update meets growing demand while controlling costs. This lightweight version opens doors for more users without sacrificing research quality.
Key Features of the Lightweight Tool
- Shorter Outputs: Responses are more concise, saving time.
- Reliable Quality: Despite being shorter, answers remain detailed and accurate.
- Automatic Switchover: When users hit full tool limits, the system shifts to the lightweight version.
- Greater Access: More users can now use research tools without high costs.
Coming Soon to More Users
OpenAI confirmed the tool will reach enterprise and education users next week. This means schools, companies, and large teams will have the same level of access and limits as Team users.
The company shared the news on X, formerly known as Twitter. They stressed that this update maintains their goal: to keep AI tools fast, useful, and widely accessible.
The Need for Fast, Trustworthy AI Research
As AI becomes a daily tool, the need for efficient research grows. People want quick answers, but they also need those answers to be accurate.
This lightweight version meets both needs. It gives clear responses without the delays or costs of larger models. This will serve for students, small teams, freelancers, and even researchers.
For example:
- A student writing a report can get quick facts without endless searching.
- A freelancer preparing a client brief can gather insights faster.
- A manager tracking trends can stay informed with less effort.
