What is ChatGPT? Everything you need to know about the AI chatbot

It’s very likely that if you’re reading this article on a smartphone or computer, you’re also aware of a rather popular internet keyword called ‘ChatGPT’. You also probably know that ChatGPT has something to do with artificial intelligence, but the details beyond that might seem confusing to many. While it’s true that ChatGPT relies on AI, there’s a lot more to this very popular internet tool beyond just its use of AI. 

Usefully, it’s also something you can access and use right now, with even a smartphone and mobile data connection. There’s a lot that goes into ChatGPT, and a great deal of things you can use it for. If you’re wondering about the details of everything that goes into making ChatGPT what it is, here’s our quick explainer.

What is ChatGPT, and how do I use it?

ChatGPT is a generative AI chatbot, developed by California-based OpenAI. Launched in 2022, ChatGPT is credited with the rapid growth in interest in generative AI tools. Like other generative AI chat bots, ChatGPT is based on the GPT-4o large language model (also developed by OpenAI), and is available to use on smartphones and computers, with wide support for platforms and browsers through apps and its own website.

Currently, ChatGPT works on a ‘freemium’ model, where users are able to use certain features with set limitations for free. There is also a premium service which operates on a subscription fee, and gives users access to newer and better large language models, more features, and fewer usage limitations.

What can ChatGPT do?

As the name suggests, ChatGPT is a chatbot, using generative AI and frequent training to be able to ‘converse’ with users. You can type out or speak questions using voice, which ChatGPT will be able to respond to in real time.

At its simplest, ChatGPT can scan various sources on the Internet and provide concise answers to queries and searches, without the user having to scan through multiple links to find the same answers. It therefore makes the process of information gathering a bit easier for users. That said, AI isn’t always accurate in gathering information, so it’s best to verify important information before relying on it, or avoiding the use of ChatGPT and other AI chatbots for critical tasks where accuracy is important.

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The system can access information from the Internet, as well as generate content such as written passages, replies to emails, and even create animated images and video clips based on the prompts given by the user. It also retains context in conversations, and is able to adapt and take into consideration earlier inputs and prompts; it can further modify images based on additional prompts, or change responses and text passages based on additional inputs by the user.

ChatGPT can also be used for professional requirements, such as developing customised AI chatbots for organisations. These can interact with customers online and provide specific information such as purchase details, basic customer support for minor issues, product information, and more. These are, of course, paid services that are managed and handled by enterprises, but it’s likely that many of your ‘bot’ interactions with popular brands or websites have been with a special and customised version of ChatGPT.

ChatGPT is a versatile AI tool, and its ease of access makes it particularly convenient for everyone to use for even basic needs and tasks.