The Extension’s AI features (see Search Intent and the AI Assistant) use the AI provider you configure with your own API key. You can use a free API key from OpenRouter or Nvidia NIM. The API key is stored locally in your browser and is only used to call the provider you have selected.
Entering an API Key in the Extension
Steps
- Open the Extension and go to the Settings tab.
- Under AI Provider, select the matching provider (OpenRouter or NVIDIA).
- Paste the API key you obtained into the corresponding field.
- Select the Model you want to use, then save.
Where the API Key Is Stored
The API key is stored locally in your browser, is not sent to SERPUPDATE, and is only used to call the provider you have selected. For configuration details, see Exporting Reports and Settings.
Getting a Free API Key from OpenRouter
OpenRouter is a service that aggregates many AI models and offers several free models.
Steps
- Go to openrouter.ai and sign up or log in (you can use Google).
- Go to the Keys section, click to create a new key, and give it a memorable name.
- Copy the API key you just created (the key is shown only once, so be sure to save it).
- Return to the Extension, select OpenRouter as the provider, and paste the key.
Choosing a Free Model
In OpenRouter’s model list, choose a model labeled as free (it usually has the word “free” in its name) so that you are not charged. Free models have rate limits, but they are sufficient for typical AI Chat and Search Intent use.
Getting a Free API Key from Nvidia NIM
Nvidia NIM provides API access to many AI models, along with free usage when you first sign up.
Steps
- Go to build.nvidia.com and log in with your NVIDIA account (sign up for free if you do not have one).
- Select a model you want to use.
- Click Generate API Key, then copy it.
- Return to the Extension, select NVIDIA as the provider, paste the key, and select the correct model.
Tip
Choose the same model on both the NVIDIA site and in the Model field of the Extension to avoid a mismatch error.
Notes on Using API Keys
- Each provider has its own API key; if you switch providers, you need to paste the correct key for that provider.
- If AI Chat returns an error, double-check the API key and the remaining quota in your provider account.
- You can switch providers or models at any time in Settings.