If you type @ in ChatGPT and see a menu of tools, apps or GPTs, the symbol is working as a selector or mention. It helps tell ChatGPT which available capability you want to use in that message. However, the exact menu depends on the interface, account, plan, workspace settings and features currently available to you.
The @ symbol is not a universal “make this prompt better” command. It also does not unlock hidden features. You must choose an item that ChatGPT actually displays, or explicitly use a supported @ action documented for your version.
What the @ symbol means in ChatGPT
In supported ChatGPT interfaces, @ can be used to reference an available capability without leaving the conversation. Depending on your account, the menu might contain an app, a specialised GPT, a research tool or another supported action.
OpenAI’s current product documentation also uses @ for certain entry points in specific experiences. For example, a feature may be started by selecting it after typing @ in the composer. That does not mean the same action is available to every account.
How to use an @ mention
- Open a new or existing ChatGPT conversation.
- Click inside the message box.
- Type @ and pause briefly.
- Select an item from the menu that appears.
- Write what you want that tool, app or GPT to do.
- Review any permission or connection request before approving it.
Do not type the name from memory and assume it has been selected. A successful mention normally appears as a distinct selected item, chip or labelled entry in the composer.
@ mentions, slash commands, the plus menu and prompts
| Control | Main purpose | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| @ symbol | Select or mention an available capability | A suggestion menu may appear |
| / symbol | Open a supported command or shortcut menu | Only displayed options should be treated as real commands |
| + or tools button | Browse uploads, research, images and other tools | A visual menu of available features |
| Normal prompt | Tell ChatGPT what response you want | No special selector is required |
If you arrived here after seeing claims about commands such as /handwritten or /humanise, read our detailed explanation of which ChatGPT slash commands are real.
Using @ with apps
Apps connect ChatGPT to supported third-party services. Depending on the app and permissions, ChatGPT may be able to search information, reference a document or perform an allowed action.
Before an app can work, you may need to install or enable its plugin, connect an account and approve the requested access. A mention cannot bypass those requirements. Availability can depend on your ChatGPT plan, region, workspace, model and interface.
Use a specific request after the mention
A mention selects the capability, but the rest of the message should still explain the task. For example:
@SelectedApp Find the latest project brief I can access and summarise its deadlines. Do not make any changes.
The final sentence is important because it clearly limits the task to reading rather than editing.
Using @ with a GPT or specialised experience
Some ChatGPT versions let users bring a specialised GPT or capability into a conversation. When it is supported, select the result shown in the menu and then give it a normal prompt.
Do not confuse a GPT’s name with an instruction. Typing @ followed by a name that does not appear in the menu may remain ordinary text.
Why the @ menu does not appear
The feature is not available in that interface
Web, iOS, Android and desktop versions can receive interface changes at different times. Try the current ChatGPT web interface and update the mobile or desktop app.
You are not signed in
Some tools, connected apps and GPT features require an account. Sign in using the same method you originally used.
Your plan, region or workspace restricts it
A feature can be limited by subscription, geographic availability or an organisation’s administrator. In a work or school account, ask the workspace administrator whether apps or related tools are disabled.
No app or tool has been connected
Open the tools, plugin or app directory visible in your ChatGPT interface. Connect only services you trust and review the access being requested.
The menu is temporarily stuck
Start a new chat, refresh the page and try an incognito window. Browser extensions that alter text fields can interfere with suggestion menus. Our guide to the “Something went wrong” and network errors has a broader troubleshooting sequence.
What information can an mentioned app access?
An app should only access information allowed by the connected account and granted permissions, but the scope differs between services. Read the connection screen carefully. Workplace administrators may also apply additional controls.
- Use the correct work or personal account when connecting.
- Do not paste passwords, private keys or one-time codes into a prompt.
- Ask ChatGPT to perform a read-only task when you only need information.
- Review confirmations before allowing an app to send, edit, upload or delete something.
- Disconnect unused apps from settings.
Why ChatGPT may ignore the mention
First confirm that the item was selected from the menu. Then simplify the request and state what source should be used. If the response remains generic, begin a fresh chat and repeat the mention. Conflicting instructions in a long conversation can make the intended tool unclear.
You can also use ChatGPT Custom Instructions for preferences that should apply broadly, but they do not replace app selection or permissions.
Frequently asked questions
Does @ make ChatGPT search the web?
Not automatically. Select an available search or research capability, or ask ChatGPT to search when web search is available in your account.
Is @ the same as tagging someone on social media?
The visual idea is similar, but you are usually referencing a tool, app, GPT or supported action—not notifying another person.
Can I type any app name after @?
No. Use an item that appears in the live menu. The relevant app may need to be installed, connected or allowed by a workspace administrator.
Why does a tutorial show options I cannot see?
The tutorial may use another plan, platform, region, workspace or older interface. ChatGPT features roll out and change over time.
Final takeaway
Treat @ as a selector, not a magic prompt. Type it, choose a capability that actually appears, state the task clearly and review permissions before allowing an external action. If nothing appears, the cause is usually account availability, interface differences, an unconnected app or a temporary loading problem.
Check out some of the Chatgpt keyboard shortcuts that you can use.
For the current official description of connected capabilities, see OpenAI’s Apps in ChatGPT guide.
