Microsoft is exploring new territory with its Bing Chat service, preparing to roll out a feature that allows users to engage with the chatbot without activating its search engine capabilities, essentially functioning like OpenAI's ChatGPT. The development seems a curious move since Bing Chat leverages ChatGPT's AI, yet it is a strategic step from Microsoft, as confirmed by the tests conducted by the tech news platform Windows Latest. The tests suggested that disabling the search feature not only sped up response generation but also occasionally led to mixed accuracy in information delivery.

For example, when questioned about the latest version of Windows 11, Bing Chat mistakenly provided an outdated answer, identifying version 21H2 rather than the correct version 23H2. However, when discussing recent global events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Bing Chat dispensed precise information, correctly stating that the conflict started in late 2021 and was ongoing.

This mixture of old and new knowledge hints that the Bing Chat mode might combine different AI models – possibly including elements from both GPT 3.5 Turbo and the more updated GPT 4 –, considering that it could reference events beyond the former's training cut-off in September 2021.

Windows Latest learned from Microsoft insiders that there's a growing user preference for a more responsive, albeit less informed, chatbot. To cater to this audience, Microsoft is crafting a 'no search mode,' which can be toggled on and off with a new plugin aptly named "Search". While details about its official release remain vague, it is projected to be initially available to a limited number of users.

Additionally, Microsoft is showcasing its support for third-party plugins within Bing Chat, aimed at refining the bot's conversational skills for specific tasks. Demonstrated plugins include one for OpenTable for restaurant recommendations and others for commerce-oriented services like Instacart, although their precise functions in this context have yet to be elucidated.

Despite these reported enhancements, there's some skepticism around this approach. Bing Chat is known for its accuracy, stemming from its search capabilities; removing this could potentially undermine its effectiveness and reliability. Similarly, within the AI industry, the focus is generally on enhancing precision, suggesting that this update from Microsoft might diverge from the prevailing trend.

As for the full reveal of these planned Bing Chat updates, they are likely to surface during Microsoft's Ignite event scheduled for November 15, where the tech giant is set to divulge its latest AI innovations. Skeptics will be watching closely to gauge whether this new direction marks a meaningful innovation or an unexpected retreat for Bing's AI capabilities.