ChatGPT can read your Ellipsend contacts and conversations the same way Claude can. You need ChatGPT Plus ($20 a month) or higher. The Free and Go plans can't add custom plugins. You'll also need your Ellipsend MCP key, so grab that first from Get Your Ellipsend MCP Key. Make a separate key for ChatGPT so you can turn it off on its own later.
Add Ellipsend as a Plugin
In ChatGPT, connectors are called plugins.
1. In the left sidebar, click Plugins.
2. In the top right, click Add, then Add custom MCP server.
3. Name it Ellipsend, leave Server URL selected under Connection, and paste this address.
https://mcp.ellipsend.com/v3/mcp
4. Set Authentication to OAuth. Leave Advanced OAuth settings alone.
5. Check I understand and want to continue, then click Create as a plugin.
You can skip the icon. ChatGPT shows a red note about the icon file, but it's optional.
Enter Your MCP Key
ChatGPT asks you to confirm. Click Connect Ellipsend.
An Ellipsend page opens asking for your key. Paste your MCP API key and click Authorize.
Set the Permission to Read-Only
This is the important step. ChatGPT's default is Allow low-risk tools, which lets it decide on its own which actions are safe to run without asking you. We recommend changing it so ChatGPT can read freely but always asks before it sends a message or changes a contact.
1. Open the Ellipsend plugin. You'll find it under Plugins in the sidebar, or in Settings, then Plugins.
2. Click Permission.
3. Choose Allow read-only tools.
Avoid Allow all tools. It lets ChatGPT send DMs and reply to comments without asking.
Make Sure It Works
Start a new chat and ask "List my 5 most recent Ellipsend contacts." A list of your recent contacts means you're connected.
If It Doesn't Connect
No Add custom MCP server option. Check your plan. ChatGPT Free and Go can't add custom plugins.
Wrong address. Copy the URL above exactly.
Key rejected. Check you copied the whole key. If you've lost it, make a new one in Ellipsend and connect again.