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HighlightGPT

Highlight in ChatGPT, ask GPT in a side panel

Chrome ExtensionsProductivityArtificial Intelligence
2026-01-29

Product Introduction

  1. Definition: HighlightGPT is a specialized Chrome browser extension designed to augment OpenAI’s ChatGPT web interface. It falls under the technical category of AI productivity tools, enabling direct text interaction within ChatGPT’s native environment.
  2. Core Value Proposition: HighlightGPT eliminates workflow friction for ChatGPT users by enabling instant text-based actions (ask, explain, translate, memorize) via highlights. Its core value lies in transforming passive reading into active thinking without token overhead or context switching.

Main Features

  1. Highlight-to-Ask Workflow:
    • How it works: Users select text within ChatGPT, triggering a toolbar with options (Ask, Explain, Translate, Memorize). The extension injects this text into a new query via DOM manipulation, leveraging ChatGPT’s existing UI.
    • Technology: Chrome Extension APIs (Content Scripts) for real-time text selection detection and response injection.
  2. Zero-Token Side Panel:
    • How it works: Responses generate in a collapsible sidebar panel adjacent to the main chat, maintaining conversation continuity. This uses ChatGPT’s native API endpoints, avoiding third-party token consumption.
    • Technology: React-based panel integrated via iframe isolation, synced with ChatGPT’s session cookies.
  3. Memory Integration:
    • How it works: Users manually save key responses to ChatGPT’s native Memory feature. The extension auto-formats highlights into memory-ready prompts using regex parsing.
    • Technology: Direct memory storage via ChatGPT’s localStorage session data.

Problems Solved

  1. Pain Point: Disruptive workflow when copying text between ChatGPT and external tools, causing context loss and redundant prompting.
  2. Target Audience:
    • Researchers analyzing long documents
    • Non-native speakers needing translations
    • Content creators editing AI outputs
    • Students studying complex materials
  3. Use Cases:
    • Translating technical jargon in real-time during research
    • Saving critical data points to memory for future sessions
    • Explaining code snippets without leaving the chat window

Unique Advantages

  1. Differentiation: Unlike AI toolbars requiring API keys (e.g., Monica), HighlightGPT uses ChatGPT’s free web interface—no subscription fees or token limits. Competitors like Glarity require separate tabs.
  2. Key Innovation: Native integration with ChatGPT’s memory system and zero-token architecture. The side panel operates within ChatGPT’s security sandbox, avoiding data leaks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Does HighlightGPT cost extra tokens?
    No, HighlightGPT uses ChatGPT’s existing web session—zero additional tokens are consumed for queries.
  2. How does HighlightGPT handle privacy?
    All processing occurs locally in your browser; no data is sent to external servers.
  3. Can I use HighlightGPT with ChatGPT Plus?
    Yes, it’s compatible with both free and Plus accounts via Chrome.
  4. What languages does the translator support?
    It supports all languages available in ChatGPT’s native translation model.
  5. Is there a mobile version?
    Currently, HighlightGPT is only available for Chrome desktop browsers.

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