OpenAI Launches ChatGPT App Submissions and Directory

OpenAI has launched a submission process for developers to create and publish apps that integrate directly into ChatGPT, along with a dedicated app directory to help users discover and access them. The announcement, made on December 17, marks a significant expansion of the chatbot's capabilities, allowing third-party developers to extend conversations with new tools and actions. Apps began appearing in the desktop version of ChatGPT the following day, though availability on mobile devices remains unclear.

The move builds on OpenAI's earlier efforts to incorporate external services into its AI platform. In October, the company revealed plans to add apps, highlighting integrations with major platforms such as Expedia for travel bookings, Spotify for music recommendations, Zillow for real estate searches, Canva for design tasks, and Adobe Photoshop for image editing. These initial connectors, now rebranded as apps, enable users to perform practical tasks within chats, such as ordering groceries, converting outlines into slide decks, or researching apartments. OpenAI described the apps as a way to "extend ChatGPT conversations by bringing in new context and letting users take...