What URLs and Files Can Q, ChatGPT for Slack, Read?

Updated

Q can read both URLs and files that you attach to your message in Slack. Supported URLs include general web pages, arXiv papers, YouTube, Google Slides, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Notion; supported files include audio, video, PDF, image, Excel, PPT, Word, text, CSV, and code. Some URLs — notably Google Workspace apps — require your authentication before Q can access them. You attach the URL or file alongside your input, and Q then summarizes, evaluates, brainstorms, or answers questions about it.

Supported URLs

Attach any of the following links with your message, and Q will read the content on demand:

URL type Notes
General web pages Standard public pages
arXiv (Paper) Academic paper pages
YouTube Video links
Google Slides Requires your authentication
Google Docs Requires your authentication
Google Sheets Requires your authentication
Notion Notion pages

The Google Workspace types (Docs, Slides, Sheets) are the ones that need you to authenticate, because the content sits behind your account. If Q can't read a Google link, check that you've completed the authentication step in settings first.

Supported Files

Attach a file directly to your Slack message and Q will read it:

  • Audio
  • Video
  • PDF
  • Image
  • Excel
  • PPT
  • Word
  • Text
  • CSV
  • Code

This is the practical difference from the browser version of ChatGPT: Q reads these inputs on demand from inside Slack, so you don't have to copy content out of a document or paste a transcript before asking.

How to Use These Inputs

  1. Add Q to your workspace and invite it to a channel or open a direct message.
  2. Attach the URL or file to your message — for example, paste a Google Doc link or upload a PDF.
  3. Mention @Q with your request in a channel (in DMs you can skip the @Q). State what you want done: summarize, evaluate, brainstorm, self-review, or answer questions.
  4. Read the response in the thread, then follow up in the same thread if you need refinement.

For example, a team member could attach a Google Sheet of quarterly figures and ask Q to summarize the trends, or drop in a YouTube link and ask for the key points — all without leaving the conversation.

Practical Notes

  • Authentication matters. Public pages generally work as-is; Google Workspace links depend on your account access. Set this up before relying on those URL types in a workflow.
  • Team-wide consistency. If your team repeatedly reads the same kinds of inputs, put the rules and templates in Custom Instructions so everyone gets consistent output without re-explaining the task each time.
  • Data handling. Q is described as not storing or learning your data, and it reads thread content when mentioned so it can follow the conversation — it does not read content outside that context.
  • Trial and plans. Q offers a 14-day free trial with no credit card required; continuing after the trial requires a paid plan. Check the pricing page for current plan details.