Use Krunner to search with ChatGPT | Copilot | Perplexity on Linux

If you're using AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Perplexity daily on your Linux desktop, you know how powerful they are. However, constantly switching to your web browser to type in queries can interrupt your flow. What if you could access these powerful AI assistants directly from your desktop, with a simple keyboard shortcut?

That's where Krunner comes in. This versatile utility, typically accessed via Alt + Space, already makes quick work of launching applications and finding files. By configuring Krunner, we can extend its capabilities to include direct searches with your favorite AI tools. It's a straightforward setup that can significantly boost your workflow and productivity, whether you're learning, working, or troubleshooting.

This post will guide you through the simple steps to integrate these AI services with Krunner, making your Linux desktop even more efficient.

Why This Integration Matters: Boosting Your Productivity

• Instant Access: Get answers, code suggestions, or explanations without leaving your current application or opening a new browser tab.
• Enhanced Workflow: Maintain focus and momentum by seamlessly integrating AI queries into your daily tasks.
• Rapid Problem-Solving: Quickly search for solutions to errors or complex problems, making debugging and learning faster.
• Efficiency: Save time on repetitive tasks and get quick insights, allowing you to concentrate on higher-value work.

Prerequisites and What You'll Need

• A Linux Desktop with Krunner: (Common in KDE Plasma environments).
• Accounts for ChatGPT, Copilot, or Perplexity (optional as they work without account as well for basic search but will be limited to their very basic model): You'll be leveraging their web interfaces for searches.

Step-by-Step Guide: Integrating Krunner with Your AI Tools

Accessing Plasma Search Settings

There are two equally valid (and equally awesome) ways to get to the configuration page. Choose your adventure!

Option 1: Via System Settings

1. Open System Settings: Click on your desktop's application launcher and select "System Settings."
   
   
   
2. Navigate to Plasma Search: In the System Settings window, search for "Plasma Search" in the top search bar, or navigate to the "Search" section if available.
   
   
   
3. Find Web Search Keywords: Within the Plasma Search section, locate and select "Web Search Keywords."
4. Click the Gear Icon: Click the gear icon on the right side of the "Web Search Keywords" option. This will open the "Configure System Settings" window.

Option 2: Via Krunner Direct

1. Activate Krunner: Press Alt + Space (or your custom Krunner shortcut).
   
   
   
2. Select the Gear Icon: On the left side of the Krunner search bar, click the small gear icon.
   
   
   
3. Configure Enabled Search Plugins: From the menu that appears, choose "Configure Enabled Search Plugins."
   
   
4. Go to Web Search Keywords: Find and select "Web Search Keywords" and click its corresponding gear icon. This will open the same "Configure System Settings" window.

Adding Your AI Search Providers

Now that you're in the "Configure System Settings" window (the one with the web search keywords), let's add our AI friends.

1. Click "New": Locate and click the "New" button. A new entry form will appear.
   
2. Configure ChatGPT:
   • Shortcut Name: Enter a descriptive name like "ChatGPT Search."
   • URL:

     https://chatgpt.com/?q=\{@}

   • Shortcut Keyword:gpt
     
     
     
3. Configure ChatGPT Temporary chat:
   • Shortcut Name: "Temp ChatGPT Search"
   • URL:

     https://chatgpt.com/?q=\{@}&temporary-chat=true

   • Shortcut Keyword:gptt
     
     
     
4. Configure Copilot:
   • Click "New" again
   • Shortcut Name: "Copilot Search"
   • URL:

     https://copilot.microsoft.com/?q=\{@}&showconv=1&sendquery=1&form=EDGAAC

   • Shortcut Keyword:copilot
     
     
     
5. Configure Perplexity:
   • Click "New" again
   • Shortcut Name: "Perplexity AI Search"
   • URL:

     https://www.perplexity.ai/search?q=\{@}

   • Shortcut Keyword:pplx,perplexity
     
     
     
6. Apply and Confirm: Click "Apply" and then "OK" on the main window.

Optional Setting: Changing the Keyword Delimiter

By default, Krunner uses a colon (:) as a delimiter (e.g., gpt: your query). You can change this to a space for a more natural typing experience.

1. Open "Configure System Settings" window where you added keywords.
   
   
   
2. Change "Keyword delimiter" from Colon to Space.
3. Click "Apply" and "OK." Done.

Now just type your keyword followed by your query like gpt your question.

How to Use Your New Krunner Functionality

With Krunner active (Alt + Space), type your keyword and query:

• pplx explain machine learning to me
• copilot how to write a bash script to backup files
• gpt what are the benefits of quantum computing

Krunner will launch the AI tool in your browser with your query pre-filled.

Troubleshooting Tips: Because Even Superheroes Trip Sometimes

• Keyword Not Working: Double-check that your shortcut keyword and the URL are entered correctly in the Krunner settings. Ensure the `{@}` placeholder is exactly as shown in the URL examples.
• No Search Results: Make sure "Web Search Keywords" plugin is enabled.
• Incorrect Delimiter: If you're using the space delimiter and it's not working, ensure you've applied the change correctly in the settings.

"My cat is judging me." Don’t worry, they’re just impressed. Offer snacks.

---

Conclusion: A Smarter Linux Experience

You've now successfully integrated Krunner with ChatGPT, Copilot, and Perplexity. This simple enhancement transforms your desktop into a powerful AI launcher. Whether you’re debugging, learning, or just poking around out of curiosity, Krunner + AI equals serious productivity gains.

Try it out and let us know how it’s working for you. Share your shortcuts, tips, or even a cool use-case in the comments!