Bye, bye Google — how to make ChatGPT Search your default search engine in Chrome

ChatGPT
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Ready to give Google a break? ChatGPT Search might be worth a try if you're already paying for ChatGPT Plus. While ChatGPT can do all sorts of weird and wonderful things, like roasting your Instagram feed, negotiate a higher salary, and even choose a haircut that best suits your face shape, its search capabilities take things to another level. 

I've found it particularly useful when I need quick answers without having to rely on Google's AI summaries (which aren't always accurate) or waste time scrolling through endless web pages to find what I'm looking for. The only catch is you'll need that ChatGPT Plus subscription ($20 monthly) to make it work. 

If you're already a Plus user, setting up ChatGPT as your default search engine is surprisingly simple. All you need is Chrome and about five minutes of your time. Let's walk through how to make the switch.

1. Download the extension

(Image: © Future)

Navigate to ChatGPT Search's announcement page and click on Download Chrome Extension to reach the official Chrome Web Store page.

2. Add to Chrome

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Click the Add to Chrome button at the top of the store page to begin installation. When the pop-up window appears, click Add extension. You'll see a confirmation message that ChatGPT Search has been added to Chrome.

3. Pin the extension

(Image: © Future)

Click the puzzle-piece icon in the top-right corner of Chrome to access your extensions. Find ChatGPT Search and click the pin icon next to it until it turns blue.

4. Start your first search

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Type your query into Chrome's address bar just as you would with Google.

5. View AI-powered results

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Ensure the blue globe icon is selected to activate ChatGPT Search and view your AI-enhanced results.


Now that you've learned how to make ChatGPT your default search engine, why not check out some its other capabilities? Improve your interactions with 7 tips to craft the perfect prompt in ChatGPT. Learn how to prepare for and ace your next job interview with ChatGPT. And for financial planning, discover how to build a budget using ChatGPT.

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Kaycee Hill
Tutorials editor

Kaycee is an Editor at Tom’s Guide and has been writing for as long as she can remember. Her journey into the tech world began as Cazoo's Knowledge Content Specialist, igniting her enthusiasm for technology. When she’s not exploring the latest gadgets and innovations, Kaycee can be found immersed in her favorite video games, or penning her second poetry collection.