Truth Social has launched a new AI-powered search feature called Truth Search AI, developed in partnership with Perplexity, a startup specializing in AI search technology. This tool aims to provide users with direct, contextually accurate answers and transparent citations, setting it apart from traditional search engines.
The Truth Search AI is currently live on the web version of Truth Social, with plans for beta testing on mobile apps. By partnering with Perplexity, Truth Social is positioning itself as more than just a political discussion forum, but a credible information platform. The company says the aim is to make information discovery on the platform both efficient and trustworthy, directly addressing concerns over misinformation in AI-driven responses.
Truth Search AI uses Perplexity's Sonar API to retrieve up-to-date information in a structured format. The platform will maintain control over which sources the AI is allowed to draw from, shaping the information it provides. This approach has raised questions about the platform's control over information sources and potential ideological bias.
The tool has been found to predominantly cite conservative-leaning outlets like Fox News and Epoch Times, reflecting a deliberate limitation of its source pool. Critics argue that this approach risks creating a closed information loop, where users are exposed only to information that reinforces pre-existing beliefs. Axios tested Truth Search AI and found that it didn't always present information favorable to Trump, but the constrained information environment raises concerns about algorithmic bias and political polarization.
Truth Social plans to refine and expand the search feature based on user feedback, with further enhancements to follow. The platform's ability to maintain speed, scalability, and neutrality in sourcing will be crucial in determining the success of Truth Search AI. If successful, Truth Search AI could emerge as a defining feature in Truth Social's product portfolio, extending its reach beyond its politically aligned base and into mainstream conversations about credible online information.
