"ThunderAI" Setup Guide - ChatGPT Web Interface
The ChatGPT Web Interface integration lets you use ThunderAI without an API key.
ThunderAI interacts directly with the ChatGPT website on your behalf, so a free ChatGPT account is all you need.
| API key required | No |
| Free option | Yes [Also with a free ChatGPT account] |
| Best for | Getting started quickly, no billing setup |
Prerequisites
- A free (or paid) account on chatgpt.com
- Thunderbird with ThunderAI installed
Setup
1. Open ThunderAI Options
In Thunderbird, click the ThunderAI menu and select Options, or go to
Tools → Add-ons and Themes → ThunderAI → Preferences.
2. Select the ChatGPT Web Interface
In the Connection section, choose ChatGPT Web Interface from the integration dropdown.
3. Grant the required permission
ThunderAI needs permission to access chatgpt.com.
This permission is optional and only used to interact with the ChatGPT website on your behalf. ThunderAI does not collect or store any of your data.
4. Log in to ChatGPT in Thunderbird
You only need to do this once, Thunderbird will keep the session active.
Use the button in the ThunderAI preferences page to open a new Thunderbird tab and visit chatgpt.com. Log in with your account.
5. Test the integration
Open any email, click on the ThunderAI toolbar button, and select a prompt (e.g. Summarize). ThunderAI will open a panel and interact with ChatGPT.
Tips and known limitations
- Response speed depends on the ChatGPT website and may vary. The API integration is generally faster and more reliable.
- Free accounts are subject to ChatGPT's own usage limits (rate limits, model availability).
- If ChatGPT changes its website layout, the integration may temporarily stop working until ThunderAI is updated. Check the status page for any known issues.
- You can define to use a Custom GPT or Project globally in the preferences window or on the single prompt configuration./li>
Troubleshooting
ThunderAI shows an error or no response
Make sure you are logged in to ChatGPT in a Thunderbird tab. Try visiting chatgpt.com directly from Thunderbird and check that the session is active. Use the button in the ThunderAI preferences page to do this.
Responses are slow or time out
This is usually a temporary issue with the ChatGPT website. Wait a moment and try again, or consider switching to the OpenAI API integration for more reliable performance.