ChatGPT Launches App Store

On Wednesday evening, OpenAI launched its App Directory, showcasing all currently available tools and opening up its SDK for developers to build new interactive experiences within the bot interface. Last month, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated, “We plan to roll out the essential features needed over time to build a robust platform,” and launching an app store is clearly a significant step in that direction.

Another update involves renaming the “connectors” that previously helped users pull data from external services like Google Drive or Dropbox. These are now officially rebranded as ChatGPT apps. As explained on a support page, chat connectors are now called “apps with file search,” deep research connectors are now labeled “deep research apps,” and sync connectors have become “apps with sync.” The page also notes that if memory is enabled, apps may utilize memory data. For free, Plus, Go, and Pro ChatGPT users, OpenAI may use interaction data to train its models—provided users have opted into the “improve the model for everyone” setting.

For users seeking more interactivity, there are now expanded options such as the ChatGPT apps introduced last October for services like Spotify and Zillow—some of which are now available in additional regions. For instance, Spotify’s ChatGPT integration is now accessible in the “UK, Switzerland, and across the EU.” Newly added apps include Apple Music, allowing all users to discover songs, create playlists, and manage their music libraries directly within the chatbot; and DoorDash, which can turn “recipe ideas, meal planning, and weekly staples” into actionable shopping carts—all within the same conversation window.

The specifics of how these developments will help OpenAI monetize its AI business remain unclear. The announcement simply states, “We’re gradually exploring more monetization options, including digital goods, and will share further updates as developers and users gain experience building and interacting.”