OpenAI launches ChatGPT app store, opening platform to developers

OpenAI has launched a new app directory inside ChatGPT’s tools menu, known as an “app store”. Developers who want their software to run within ChatGPT can now submit their apps for review and possible publication, according to TechCrunch.

As part of this change, OpenAI has also renamed what were previously known as ‘connectors’ (tools that allow users to bring data from external services such as Google Drive or Dropbox into ChatGPT), now referring to them as apps as well.

Explaining the shift, the company said, “Apps let you work with external tools and information to help you get more done in a ChatGPT conversation—some apps provide in-chat interactive experiences, while others securely connect to your services and data so ChatGPT can pull relevant context into your responses.”


OpenAI’s support page adds that chat connectors are now called “apps with file search”, deep research connectors have become “apps with deep research”, and synced connectors are labelled “apps with sync”. It also notes that apps may draw on information stored in Memory, if the feature is enabled.

OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman said last month, “We are planning to build the obvious features that you would expect for a robust platform over time,” and the creation of an app store clearly moves the company closer to that ambition.

Back in October, OpenAI announced that apps were coming to its chatbot, saying this would give users access to a much wider range of capabilities directly within ChatGPT. At the time, major platforms such as Spotify, Zillow and Canva revealed integrations that would allow people to use their services from within chat conversations. With the new directory, OpenAI is now opening the platform to a far broader group of developers.

Alongside the app directory, OpenAI has also opened its software development kit, allowing developers to build new interactive experiences that work inside the chatbot’s interface.

The app's SDK remains in beta, but it already offers tools for creating richer in-chat experiences. Once developers are ready, they can submit their apps through the OpenAI Developer platform, where they will be able to monitor the approval process. OpenAI said a number of approved apps are expected to start appearing within ChatGPT over the coming year.