OpenAI has taken a step further to turn its chatbot into a complete operating environment by enabling the third-party application integration directly within ChatGPT conversations. This new feature allows you to use services like Spotify, Booking.com, or Canva without leaving the interface, keeping everything in the same flow of conversation.
The company accompanied the announcement with a specific development kit (Apps SDK) and figures on the growth of the ecosystem: according to the company, there are already four million developers working around its technology and ChatGPT reaches 800 million users, a notable jump compared to previous years.
How it works within the chat
Applications are launched by means of instructions in natural languageFor example, you can type: "Spotify, create a playlist for Friday" and ChatGPT will open the app in the chat itself, adjusting it to the context of the conversation to perform the requested task.
In addition, the system can automatically suggest the most appropriate app depending on what you're talking about. If you're talking about buying a home, you can suggest Zillow to explore properties on an integrated interactive map without switching windows.
The first time each application is used, ChatGPT requests a explicit authorization and clearly communicates what data will be shared with the third-party developer, so that the user knows and controls the scope of the integration.
Availability and compatible partners
The feature is available from today for registered users. outside the European Union and works on all plans (Free, Go, Plus, and Pro). The rollout is starting in English and will expand as partners provide support in each market.
Amongst the initial partners These include Booking.com, Canva, Coursera, Expedia, Figma, Spotify, and Zillow. OpenAI says it's working to bring the feature to Europe "soon" and anticipates new additions before the end of the year, including Peloton, TheFork, TripAdvisor, and Uber.
SDK Apps, MCP Standard, and Agent Creation
The new Apps SDK is based on the Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard that connect ChatGPT with external data and toolsOpenAI has released the code as open source software, making it possible for applications to run on any platform that adopts the standard.
Developers can test their apps on the development mode ChatGPT and access documentation with design guidelines and practical examples. The platform displays available apps contextually, helping developers reach more users without friction.
Along with the Apps SDK, OpenAI introduced Agent Kit, a tool that simplifies the building AI agents from the ground up, with instrumentation, measurement, and secure connection to business data. In the coming months, the app submission process will open, there will be a dedicated app discovery directory, and details will be provided on how apps can be monetized, including support for the Agentic Commerce Protocol and Instant Checkout within chat.
Privacy, security and data control
Applications must comply with the usage policies OpenAI and respect third-party standards when integrating. They must be appropriate for all audiences and offer an experience based on transparency and accountability.
Developers are required to provide clear privacy policies, collect only the minimum data necessary, and explain the permissions they request. OpenAI plans to introduce more granular controls before the end of the year, allowing users to choose which categories of information each app can use. Rollout to Business, Enterprise, and Edu is also planned for the coming months.
An expanding ecosystem
During the annual developer event, Sam Altman stressed that "it's the best time to be a developer," highlighting that these tools allow scale products quickly and reach massive audiences. According to their data, the number of developers has doubled since the end of 2023, and ChatGPT's user base continues to grow strongly.
With this update, ChatGPT aims to consolidate itself as a operations center where you can find, create, reserve, or buy without leaving the chat. The key is natural language activation, permission control, and an SDK that seeks to attract more developers; availability in the EU and new monetization models will be the next steps to monitor.
