OpenAI has unveiled a new app marketplace within ChatGPT, signaling a major step toward expanding the platform’s capabilities and welcoming developers to build directly into its conversational ecosystem.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the company announced that developers can now submit their applications for review and possible inclusion in a newly introduced app directory, located within ChatGPT’s tools menu. The directory, already widely referred to as an “app store,” is designed to host a growing range of third-party integrations that enhance what users can do inside ChatGPT.

OpenAI first revealed plans for in-chat applications in October, explaining that the feature would allow ChatGPT to offer more practical, real-world functionality. At the time, several well-known companies, including Expedia, Spotify, Zillow, and Canva, announced early integrations, enabling users to access services such as travel booking, music streaming, property searches, and design tools directly through chat conversations. With the latest update, OpenAI is now opening the platform to a much wider community of developers.

According to the company, apps are intended to extend conversations by adding new context and enabling concrete actions. These include tasks such as ordering groceries, converting outlines into presentation slides, or searching for apartments—all without leaving the chat interface.

Developers can build these integrations using OpenAI’s Apps Software Development Kit (SDK), which is currently available in beta. Once an app is ready, it can be submitted through the OpenAI Developer platform, where creators can monitor its review and approval process. OpenAI noted that the first wave of approved apps is expected to begin rolling out within ChatGPT over the coming year.

Industry observers view the move as a significant milestone for OpenAI, positioning ChatGPT not just as a conversational tool, but as a platform with a growing ecosystem of services. For users, the expansion promises more reasons to rely on ChatGPT for everyday tasks, while developers gain a new channel to reach a rapidly expanding global audience.

Source: Techcrunch