OpenAI used its DevDay to reboot apps inside ChatGPT, unveiling a system that lets users invoke third-party apps directly in a chat—think: “Make me a weekend playlist” (Spotify) or “Show three-bedroom listings in Austin” (Zillow) without leaving ChatGPT.
What launched today:
- “Talk to apps” inside ChatGPT: Call apps by name or let ChatGPT suggest them contextually.
- First wave of partners: Spotify, Zillow, Canva, Booking.com, Coursera, Expedia, Figma (with more like DoorDash, OpenTable, Target, Uber “in the weeks ahead”
- Interactive UIs in the chat: Apps can render rich, clickable views (e.g., an interactive Zillow map) and even video.
- Single sign-in: Log in once to your existing app accounts from inside ChatGPT.
For developers:
- Apps SDK (preview) is live to build ChatGPT apps using the open-source Model Context Protocol (MCP) to connect data sources and trigger actions.
- App directory coming: OpenAI will let developers submit apps later this year; monetization guidance to follow (Instant Checkout support is planned).
Why it matters
OpenAI is turning ChatGPT into a universal interface for consumer services—a distribution channel that can drive discovery and usage for third-party apps while keeping users in one conversational flow. For users, it collapses the “search → click → login → switch tabs” dance into a single chat. For developers, it offers built-in reach and a consistent runtime, potentially reviving the earlier custom-GPTs concept with clearer paths to adoption and revenue.
What’s next
Expect a fast-growing catalog, deeper actions (book tables, order food, call a ride), and first monetization options. If usage sticks, ChatGPT could become a super-app layer on top of the web—where you chat, and the apps do the work.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
