OpenAI Temporarily Disables the Browse with Bing Beta Feature
OpenAI has temporarily discontinued the beta version of its browse feature on the ChatGPT app due to unforeseen issues that raise concerns over user privacy and content ownership.
This development comes less than two weeks after the feature’s initial release.
The problem surfaced when ChatGPT began displaying full text from URLs requested by users, an unintended function that inadvertently infringed upon the rights of content creators and publishers.
Privacy Issues
This mishap puts OpenAI at odds with various companies and countries sensitive to data privacy issues.
Among these is Japan, which has expressly cautioned the organization against using sensitive user data.
This issue has led to prohibitions against ChatGPT usage by multiple companies, raising significant concerns about the application’s respect for user privacy and data protection.
In a recent blog post, OpenAI acknowledged the importance of content creators, publishers, and producers benefiting from their technology, and assured that they don’t use customer data in training their models.
Furthermore, they assured users of the ability to opt out of their data being used for training. The recent issue with the browsing feature, however, seems to contradict these assurances.
The controversial browse feature was part of the “Browse with Bing” service offered to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, a $20 per month subscription that provides users access to real-time data.
Feedback
Upon rollout, users were encouraged to provide feedback, shaping the product’s evolution.
OpenAI is known for prioritizing user feedback in shaping their product’s development and in addressing potential issues.
The organization adopts a democratic approach to product improvement, giving power to its users to influence enhancements and features.
This strategy was similarly applied to the browse feature, introduced in beta to garner user insights.
However, critics argue that despite this focus on consumer input, fundamental data security issues remain unresolved, underscoring the tension between fostering user collaboration and ensuring robust data protection.
Source: OpenAI
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