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How to Use ChatGPT as Your Default Search Engine in Your Browser

·431 words·3 mins
GOODJINC
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GOODJINC
Little by little, one travels far
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In this post, I will show you how to set ChatGPT as the default search engine in your web browser.

I primarily use Google Chrome, so I will explain the steps based on Chrome’s interface. However, the process is very similar for most major browsers.

There are two main approaches: using a browser extension and utilizing the browser’s built-in features. While I personally prefer using the built-in features, I will introduce both methods.

Method 1: Using a Browser Extension
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Pros: Quick and easy to set as your primary address bar search engine.

Cons: Creates a dependency on the extension, and it locks your default search engine to ChatGPT.

Although I do not use this method myself, it is a great choice if you want the fastest setup.

Installation
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  1. Go to the Chrome Web Store.
  2. Search for ChatGPT and find the ChatGPT search extension.
  3. Click Add to Chrome to install and apply the extension.

How to Use
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After installation, simply type your query in the address bar and press Enter to see if it redirects to ChatGPT. Once confirmed, you can log in to your ChatGPT account to sync your history.

Method 2: Using Built-in Browser Features (Recommended)#

I prefer this method to minimize dependency on extensions. This approach is versatile because you can add other AI services like Perplexity or DuckDuckGo as well.

Unfortunately, I haven’t found a similar workaround for Gemini yet, which is a bit disappointing as I use it frequently.

Setting Up Search Engines
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  1. Go to Chrome Settings > Search engine.
  2. Select Manage search engines and site search, then click Add under the Site search section.
  3. Enter the name, shortcut, and the specific Query URL for the engine you want to add.

Required Query URLs:

  • ChatGPT URL
    https://chatgpt.com/?q=%s
  • Perplexity URL
    https://www.perplexity.ai/search?focus=internet&q=%s
  • DuckDuckGo URL
    https://duckduckgo.com/?q=%s

How to Use
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Type your chosen Shortcut in the address bar, then press Space or Tab. The address bar will switch to that specific search engine, allowing you to search directly.

My Personal Workflow
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I use custom shortcuts to switch between different engines instantly. Here is my current setup:

Default Search Engine: Google (Shortcut: g)
Additional Engines: ChatGPT (Shortcut: c), Perplexity (Shortcut: p)

  1. While browsing, I press Ctrl + E to quickly activate the default search engine (Google).
  2. I use Keyword Shortcuts to switch on the fly:
    • To search with ChatGPT: Type c → Space → Enter query → Enter.
    • To search with Perplexity: Type p → Space → Enter query → Enter.

By customizing your shortcuts, you can navigate between various search engines faster than ever.