ChatGPT Launches App Store, Opens Platform to Third-Party Developers

OpenAI has announced that app developers can now submit their applications for review and potential publication inside ChatGPT, marking a major step in the company’s push to expand its chatbot into a full-fledged platform. The announcement was made on Wednesday, alongside the launch of a new app directory—widely being referred to as the ChatGPT App Store.

The move builds on OpenAI’s October announcement that apps would be integrated into ChatGPT, allowing users to access external services directly within conversations. At the time, major brands such as Expedia, Spotify, Zillow, and Canva revealed early integrations. OpenAI is now opening the ecosystem to a wider range of developers.

“Apps extend ChatGPT conversations by bringing in new context and letting users take actions like ordering groceries, turning an outline into a slide deck, or searching for an apartment,” OpenAI said.

Apps SDK and Developer Submissions

OpenAI’s Apps SDK, currently available in beta, provides developers with tools to build interactive experiences that run natively inside ChatGPT. Once an app is ready, developers can submit it through the OpenAI Developer Platform, where they can track review and approval status.

OpenAI said approved apps will begin rolling out within ChatGPT over the coming year, with a phased launch approach focused on quality, safety, and usability.

How the ChatGPT App Store Works

The app directory can be accessed at chatgpt.com/apps or through the tools menu within the ChatGPT interface. Unlike traditional app stores, users do not download apps. Instead, apps run directly inside ChatGPT and can be activated simply by mentioning their name during a conversation.

Apps and connectors are listed together in the directory. While apps allow users to take actions—such as making bookings or creating designs—connectors focus on retrieving and referencing data from external sources like Google Drive. Existing ChatGPT features remain unchanged.

OpenAI is also developing recommendation features that surface relevant apps during conversations based on user context, preferences, and prior usage.

Available Apps and Monetization Plans

The current app directory includes well-known services such as Spotify, Canva, DoorDash, Figma, Zillow, Booking.com, Expedia, and Apple Music. These apps enable a range of tasks including playlist creation, travel bookings, design collaboration, shopping, and project management—all without leaving ChatGPT.

Looking ahead, OpenAI is exploring monetization options for developers, including the sale of digital goods and services, signaling plans to build a sustainable app ecosystem.

A Shift Toward a Platform Model

With the launch of the ChatGPT App Store, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as more than a conversational AI. The company aims to turn it into a central productivity and interaction hub—one that blends AI-driven dialogue with real-world actions and services, while encouraging innovation through third-party developer participation.

By - Aaradhay Sharma