This guide explains how to set ChatGPT as the default search engine in your internet browser.

For reference, I am using Google Chrome, so the instructions will be based on it. However, most major browsers have similar methods.

There are two approaches:

1. Using extensions

2. Utilizing the browser’s default features

While I personally use the browser’s default features, I will introduce both methods.

Using a Browser Extension

Pros: Quick and easy to set up ChatGPT as the search engine in the address bar.

Cons: Reliance on extensions, and if you use multiple search engines, ChatGPT becomes the default for all searches.

Although I don’t use extensions myself, they are a convenient option for setup. Here’s how to do it:

Install the Extension

1. Visit the Chrome Web Store

2. Search for ChatGPT and locate the ChatGPT search extension.

3. Click Add to Chrome to install and apply the extension.

Using the Extension

After installation, type a query in the address bar and press Enter to confirm ChatGPT is working.

Once everything is set up, you can seamlessly use it as a search engine.

Simply log in to ChatGPT and link your account to start using it.

Utilizing Default Browser Features

I prefer minimizing reliance on extensions, so I utilize built-in browser features as much as possible.

Here’s how to do it with various engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and DuckDuckGo.

With the increasing number of services utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), this method is likely to be very helpful.

It also provides a way to use services that do not offer browser extensions.

I also use Gemini, and it’s a shame that Gemini doesn’t apply these types of classifications.

Search Engine Setup

These steps are based on Google Chrome:

1. Go to Chrome Settings > Search Engine to manage the default search engine.

2. Under Manage search engines and site search, click [Add] in the Site Search section.

3. Set up the name, shortcut, and URL based on the search engine query URL.

• ChatGPT URL

https://chatgpt.com/?q=%s&hints=search&ref=ext

• Perplexity URL

https://www.perplexity.ai/search?focus=internet&q=%s

• Duckduckgo URL

https://duckduckgo.com/?q=%s

Using Search Engines

Type the shortcut in the address bar, followed by Space or Tab, to switch to the desired search engine.

How I Use It

I utilize shortcuts to quickly switch between different search engines. Below is an example of my setup:

Default search engine: Google (shortcut: g)

Additional search engines: ChatGPT (shortcut: c), Perplexity (shortcut: p)

1. While browsing, press Ctrl + E to activate the default search engine (Google).

2. Use the shortcut in the address bar to switch search engines:

– To search with ChatGPT, type c, press Space, then enter your query and hit Enter.

– To use Perplexity, type p, press Space, then enter your query and hit Enter.

By setting shortcuts strategically, you can efficiently use various search engines without hassle.