Written by Uptimal, the team that builds and operates Upbuild and runs marketing analytics for multinational clients across the globe. Everything below reflects how the connector actually behaves in production.
ChatGPT can call external MCP servers through plugins, which turns Google Ads into live tools inside the conversation. The flow changed in 2026 (connectors became plugins), so here is the current path, verified against the live product.
The ChatGPT path
ChatGPT needs Developer mode first: Settings, Security and login, switch on Developer mode. Then Settings, Plugins, Browse plugins, hit the + button and fill the New Plugin dialog: name Upbuild, Connection on Server URL with https://connector.upbuild.app/mcp, Authentication OAuth, tick the custom-server notice, Create. The setup guide shows every screen.
Sign in with the Google account that has Ads access when prompted; the same OAuth also unlocks GA4, GTM, CM360 and DV360 reads.
Try these first
- “Summarize this month vs last: spend, conversions, ROAS by campaign.”
- “Top 20 search terms by cost with their conversion rates.”
- “Draft a Monday pacing note for the team from live numbers.”
Good to know
Developer mode is what allows custom servers; without it the + button will not add one. No Google Ads developer token is needed on your side. Everything is read-only, and the platform guide covers what the tools can and cannot see.
Ask your ad platforms directly, in Claude or ChatGPT.
Upbuild is a read-only MCP connector for ten marketing platforms: 55 tools, live data, a 14-day free trial with no card.
Start free trial → Talk to usFrequently asked questions
Which ChatGPT plans can add custom plugins?
Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise and Edu on the web, with Developer mode switched on. Workspace admins may need to allow it on Business and Enterprise.
Is my Ads login shared with OpenAI?
No. OAuth happens between you, Google and the connector; ChatGPT only calls the resulting tools. Tokens are stored encrypted by Upbuild and die on disconnect.