OpenAI has announced that developers can now submit applications for integration within ChatGPT, opening the platform to a new ecosystem of third party tools and services. The move marks a significant step in OpenAI’s effort to expand ChatGPT beyond a conversational assistant into a platform that supports real world actions and workflows directly within chat interactions.
Under the new system, developers can submit their apps through the OpenAI Developer Platform for review and approval. Once approved, these apps will appear in a dedicated ChatGPT app directory, allowing users to discover and activate them during conversations. OpenAI has indicated that the rollout of approved apps will begin gradually, with broader availability expected over time as the directory expands.
The initiative builds on OpenAI’s Apps SDK, which enables developers to create chat native experiences that combine conversational context with external functionality. These apps can be triggered by name within a chat or selected from the directory, allowing ChatGPT to perform tasks that go beyond text generation. Use cases range from document creation and data retrieval to task management, commerce related actions and integrations with external software services.
By opening app submissions, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as a more interactive and action oriented platform. The company has stated that the goal is to allow users to complete tasks without leaving the chat interface, reducing friction between intent and execution. This approach aligns with broader trends in artificial intelligence, where conversational interfaces are increasingly being used as entry points to complex digital workflows.
A key component of the rollout is the app review and governance process. Developers are required to follow OpenAI’s submission guidelines, which include standards around safety, privacy and quality. Apps must clearly disclose how user data is handled and comply with platform policies designed to prevent misuse. OpenAI has said these requirements are intended to maintain user trust as third party functionality becomes more deeply embedded within ChatGPT.
Once submitted, developers can track the approval status of their apps through the developer dashboard. Approved apps will be listed in the ChatGPT directory, where users can browse, search and select tools based on their needs. OpenAI has also indicated that it plans to refine how apps are surfaced to users, potentially using conversational context and usage patterns to recommend relevant integrations.
The launch of an app directory represents a strategic shift for ChatGPT. Until now, the platform has primarily been used for information retrieval, writing assistance and problem solving within a closed environment. Allowing third party apps introduces a marketplace like dynamic, where external developers can extend the platform’s capabilities and reach ChatGPT’s large global user base.
Industry observers note that this move places ChatGPT closer to other major technology platforms that have grown through developer ecosystems. App marketplaces have historically played a central role in driving innovation by enabling external builders to create specialised solutions. In the case of ChatGPT, this model is being applied within an AI driven interface, where conversation becomes the primary mode of interaction.
For developers, the new submission process offers an opportunity to build AI powered experiences without needing to create standalone user interfaces. By integrating directly into ChatGPT, apps can leverage existing user behaviour and conversational context, potentially lowering adoption barriers. OpenAI has also indicated that it is exploring future monetisation options, which could allow developers to generate revenue from their integrations.
The move is also expected to influence enterprise adoption of ChatGPT. Organisations may use approved apps to connect internal tools, automate workflows or integrate proprietary systems within a controlled environment. However, analysts caution that widespread enterprise use will depend on how effectively OpenAI manages security, compliance and scalability as the app ecosystem grows.
While enthusiasm around the new app submission feature is high, OpenAI has emphasised that quality control will remain a priority. Not all submissions will be approved, and the company has signalled that it will continue to refine its review processes as usage increases. Ensuring consistent performance and responsible behaviour across a growing number of third party integrations will be a central challenge in the months ahead.
As the rollout progresses, ChatGPT users can expect to see a wider range of interactive capabilities available within the platform. From productivity tools to specialised services, the app directory is likely to reshape how users interact with AI on a daily basis. By opening ChatGPT to third party developers, OpenAI is laying the groundwork for a more extensible and action oriented AI platform.