ChatGPT has begun utilizing the site: operator at scale, a feature that allows users to restrict search results to specific websites. This change, observed by Promptwatch, a company specializing in Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), saw the use of the site: operator in ChatGPT search queries jump from under 0.5% to over 16% in early August. This coincides with OpenAI's announcement of GPT-5.6 improvements for Plus and Pro users, aimed at enhancing factual accuracy and focus. Promptwatch also noted a significant reduction in Reddit's appearance in ChatGPT search results, though direct confirmation of system prompt changes remains elusive. AI
IMPACT This change in ChatGPT's search functionality could influence how websites optimize their content for AI-driven search and may alter user reliance on specific sources like Reddit.
RANK_REASON This item discusses a change in the functionality of an existing product (ChatGPT search) and its impact on how external sites are indexed, rather than a new product release or core research.
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- ChatGPT
- Claude
- Gemini
- Generative Engine Optimization
- GPT-5.6
- Hugging Face
- OpenAI
- Promptwatch
- Qwen 3.8-27B
- site: operator
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