Introduction to ChatGPT Plugins
OpenAI has introduced plugins as part of an Alpha testing program for a select group of users and developers. These plugins, including the Internet browsing plugin, are designed to enhance ChatGPT’s capabilities. Users do not need to manually trigger plugin usage; instead, ChatGPT will invoke the plugin when needed to complete a task. However, users have the option to activate a plugin if they find it necessary.
ChatGPT 3.5 with Browsing
Alpha Version One of the most anticipated plugins allows ChatGPT to browse the Internet, addressing the limitation of having knowledge only up to 2021. This new feature, currently in its Alpha version, is expected to have bugs, which testers are tasked with identifying. The browsing plugin will enable ChatGPT to access more up-to-date information, allowing for more comprehensive assistance.
User Experiences and Feedback Users have taken to Reddit to discuss their experiences with the browser plugin. Many have reported buggy results, with some users noting that the plugin doesn’t answer 75% of the time, while others have experienced browsing loops. Users have also discovered limitations on the sites that can be accessed, possibly as a safety measure against unreliable sources.
Third-Party Plugin Development Developers can join a waitlist to create their own plugins for ChatGPT using the provided documentation. These plugins function through an Application Programming Interface (API), which serves as a bridge between ChatGPT and the third-party software. Plugins can enhance ChatGPT’s abilities by retrieving real-time information, accessing knowledge bases, and performing actions on the user’s behalf.
Examples of Third-Party Plugins Several third-party plugins have already been developed, including Expedia, Instacart, KAYAK, OpenTable, Shopify, Slack, and Zapier.
Access to ChatGPT Plugins Currently, access to ChatGPT plugins is limited to ChatGPT Plus users and developers on a waitlist. As the testing phase continues and improvements are made, it is expected that the plugins will become more widely available.