OpenAI is making its Deep Research tool more accessible by introducing a lightweight version, expanding usage for Plus, Team, and Pro users, and rolling it out to Free users as well. The announcement, shared on OpenAI’s x page, highlights how this update aims to let more people tap into the tool’s capabilities while keeping responses concise yet insightful.

The lightweight version, powered by a variant of OpenAI’s o4-mini model, delivers nearly the same intelligence as the original Deep Research tool but at a lower cost to operate. This means users can expect shorter responses that still pack the depth and quality they rely on. Once the usage limits for the full Deep Research version are hit, queries will seamlessly switch to the lightweight mode, ensuring uninterrupted access.

For Plus, Team, and Pro users, the expanded usage is already in effect, giving them more flexibility to explore the tool’s potential. Enterprise and Education users will gain access next week, with usage levels matching those of Team users. Free users aren’t left out either—the lightweight version began rolling out to them today, opening up a powerful research tool to a wider audience.

This move shows OpenAI’s focus on balancing performance and accessibility, making Deep Research a practical option for more users without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a paid subscriber or a free user, this update means better access to a tool designed to dig deep and deliver clear, useful answers.

Source: OpenAI