Better ChatGPT offers an enhanced, free, and feature-rich user interface for OpenAI's ChatGPT, targeting users seeking a more powerful and flexible conversational AI experience. It provides a desktop application and a website, aiming to overcome regional restrictions and offer advanced chat management capabilities.

How It Works

The project leverages OpenAI's ChatGPT API, allowing users to input their own API keys or utilize proxy endpoints for regional access. It features a local-first architecture for the desktop app, ensuring offline access and unlimited local storage. Key functionalities include chat organization, message editing, prompt management, and integration with services like ShareGPT and Google Drive.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Website: Visit https://bettergpt.chat/
• Desktop App: Downloadable for Windows (.exe), MacOS (.dmg), and Linux (.AppImage).
• Local Hosting: Requires Node.js (v14.18.0+) and Yarn/npm (v6.14.15+). Docker (v24.07+) is also supported for containerized deployment.
• API Key: An OpenAI API key is required for full functionality.

Highlighted Details

• Bypasses regional ChatGPT restrictions via proxy support.
• Offers extensive chat management: editing, reordering, folder organization, and various export formats (Markdown, image, JSON).
• Supports custom model parameters and Azure OpenAI endpoints.
• Features a prompt library and chat title generation.

Maintenance & Community

The project is actively maintained, with a call for stars and sponsorship options available via GitHub, KoFi, Alipay, and WeChat. Community support channels are not explicitly listed in the README.

Licensing & Compatibility

The README does not explicitly state a license. The project is compatible with commercial use as it relies on the user's OpenAI API key and can be self-hosted.

Limitations & Caveats

The project's reliance on external API keys means usage is subject to OpenAI's terms and potential costs. While a desktop app is available, specific system requirements beyond Node.js/Docker versions are not detailed.