OpenAI is opening up ChatGPT to app developers
Developers can submit apps for review and users can browse an in-product directory.
OpenAI is allowing developers to submit apps for review and publication in ChatGPT, and users can discover published apps through a new in-product directory.
According to the AI pioneer, such apps can extend ChatGPT conversations by bringing in new context and letting users take actions like order groceries, turn an outline into a slide deck, or search for an apartment.
It has now published best-practice guidance, open-source example apps, an open-sourced UI library for chat-native interfaces, and a quickstart guide for developers.
The app directory is available inside ChatGPT, discoverable from the tools menu or at chatgpt.com/apps, and developers can deep-link users directly to their app pages.
Once connected, apps can be triggered during conversations when mentioned by name or selected from the tools menu, and the company is experimenting with surfacing relevant apps using conversational context, usage patterns, and user preferences.
Developers can build chat-native experiences using the Apps SDK, now in beta, and are advised to review the app submission guidelines early, it highlighted.
Submissions are managed through the OpenAI Developer Platform and must include MCP connectivity details, testing guidelines, directory metadata, and country availability settings.
The first set of approved apps will begin rolling out gradually in the new year, OpenAI noted.
In the early phase, developers may link out from ChatGPT apps to their own websites or native apps to complete transactions for physical goods, and OpenAI is exploring additional monetization options, including digital goods.
All developers will be required to follow app submission guidelines on safety, privacy, and transparency, and include clear privacy policies, request only the information needed, and users can disconnect an app at any time to immediately revoke its access.
The Recap
- Developers can submit apps to ChatGPT for review.
- App directory will be available inside ChatGPT and chatgpt.com/apps.
- First approved apps will begin rolling out in the new year.
