OpenAI Introduces Apps in ChatGPT and the Apps SDK

OpenAI has introduced a new generation of apps that integrate directly into the ChatGPT interface, allowing users to interact with third-party services through natural language and interactive UI elements. This release includes the launch of the Apps SDK in preview, enabling developers to build applications that can reach over 800 million ChatGPT users.

Interactive Conversational Experiences

Apps in ChatGPT blend natural language processing with interactive interfaces—such as maps, playlists, and presentations—to allow users to complete tasks within the chat. These apps can be triggered in two primary ways:

  • Direct Invocation: Users can call an app by name (e.g., "Spotify, make a playlist for my party this Friday").
  • Contextual Suggestions: ChatGPT can automatically suggest a relevant app based on the conversation context, such as surfacing Zillow when a user discusses buying a home.

When an app is first used, ChatGPT prompts the user to connect, ensuring transparency regarding what data will be shared with the developer.

The Apps SDK and Model Context Protocol (MCP)

Developers can build these experiences using the new Apps SDK, which is currently available in preview. The SDK is designed as an open standard built upon the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which allows ChatGPT to connect to external tools and data.

Key technical characteristics of the Apps SDK include:

  • Open Source: The SDK is open source, ensuring that apps built with it can run anywhere that adopts the MCP standard.
  • Custom Logic and Interface: Developers use their own code to define the app's interface and chat logic, connecting directly to their own backends to support user logins and premium features.
  • Developer Resources: OpenAI has provided design guidelines and an open-source repository of example apps to assist developers in creating blended interaction and conversation experiences.

Initial Partner Integrations

At launch, OpenAI collaborated with a group of pilot partners to provide immediate utility. Available apps include:

  • Booking.com
  • Canva
  • Coursera
  • Figma
  • Expedia
  • Spotify
  • Zillow

These apps are available in English in markets where the services are offered. Eleven additional partners are expected to launch later this year.

Availability and Rollout Plan

Apps are available to logged-in users on Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans, excluding users in the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. OpenAI expects to bring apps to EU users soon.

Rollout Timeline:

  • Current Status: Preview available to developers; pilot apps available to general users (outside EU/UK/Switzerland).
  • November 13, 2025: Apps became available in preview to ChatGPT Business, Enterprise, and Edu customers.
  • Later this year: OpenAI will begin accepting app submissions for review and publication, launch a dedicated app directory for browsing and searching, and share details on monetization.

Safety, Privacy, and Monetization

All apps must adhere to OpenAI's usage policies and be appropriate for all audiences. Developers are required to provide clear privacy policies and collect only the minimum necessary data.

Future updates will include:

  • Granular Data Controls: More specific controls for users to decide which data categories each app can use for personalization.
  • Monetization and Commerce: Support for the Agentic Commerce Protocol, an open standard designed to enable instant checkout directly within ChatGPT.

"The Zillow app in ChatGPT shows the power of AI to make real estate feel more human. Together with OpenAI, we’re bringing a first-of-a-kind experience to millions — a conversational guide that makes finding a home faster, easier, and more intuitive."

— Josh Weisberg, Head of AI at Zillow

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