"ThunderAI" Setup Guide - OpenAI API
The OpenAI API integration connects ThunderAI directly to OpenAI's servers using an API key.
Compared to the web interface, it is faster, more reliable, and gives you explicit control over which model you use.
| API key required | Yes |
| Free option | No [Pay-per-use billing] |
| Best for | Stable, fast access to ChatGPT models |
Prerequisites
- An OpenAI account with API access enabled
- A valid API key
- Thunderbird with ThunderAI installed
Note: OpenAI API usage is billed separately from a ChatGPT subscription. Even if you have ChatGPT Plus, you still need to add credits to your API account.
Getting an API key
- Go to platform.openai.com/api-keys
- Click Create new secret key
- Give it a name (e.g. "ThunderAI") and click Create
- Copy the key immediately, it will not be shown again
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 OpenAI API integration
In the Connection section, choose OpenAI API from the integration dropdown.
3. Enter your API key
Paste your API key in the API Key field. The key is stored locally in Thunderbird and never sent anywhere other than OpenAI's servers.
4. Choose a model
Select the model you want to use from the Model dropdown. Click the button to refresh the list.
5. Save and test
Click Save. Then open any email, use the ThunderAI menu, and run a prompt to verify that everything is working.
Tips
- API usage is measured in tokens. Emails are typically short, so costs are usually very low. Check your usage at platform.openai.com/usage.
- OpenAI regularly adds new models. Refresh the model list in ThunderAI options to see the latest available.
Troubleshooting
"Invalid API key" error
Double-check that you copied the key correctly — there should be no extra spaces. If the key still fails, generate a new one from the OpenAI platform.
"You exceeded your current quota" error
Your OpenAI API account has run out of credits. Add more at platform.openai.com/settings/organization/billing.
No models appear in the dropdown
Make sure your API key is saved and valid. If the problem persists, check your internet connection.