OpenAI’s 5–9 October 2026 update lets users create a dot and connect plugins in the ChatGPT mobile app. Before moving a familiar skill to that workflow, check the account and its tools on the device you will actually use. A connection screen is only the start of the test.
A skill's name appearing in a menu is not proof that its workflow runs correctly. Installation, tool connections and execution are separate checks. Start with the installation method documented for your product and client.
Review what you are adding
Read the publisher, description and workflow instructions. Identify included scripts, templates and required connected services. OpenAI's documentation distinguishes a skill from a plugin bundle that can also contain MCP tools. Installing the instructions alone may not provide those tools or account access.
Use the documented skill or plugin interface, or the supported local installation method. Do not paste a random command from a directory listing without understanding what it downloads or changes.
Invoke it explicitly once
OpenAI documents @ mentions for ChatGPT and $ skill mentions for Codex. The actual invocation depends on the surface. Choose the installed skill and give it a small invented input, such as three notes for a report. State that the run should only draft the result.
Check the output and dependencies
Does the result include every note, follow the template and preserve unknown details? If a tool is missing, resolve that specific dependency rather than granting broad permissions. Keep the tested version and a short record of the example. A harmless complete rehearsal is more informative than a successful installation message.