OpenAI Adds Interactive Apps to ChatGPT, New SDK for Developers

OpenAI has introduced a major feature for ChatGPT: interactive apps that users can engage with directly within conversations. The company also launched the Apps SDK (Software Development Kit), enabling developers to build and integrate their own apps into ChatGPT.

The new apps in ChatGPT are designed to blend seamlessly into conversations, responding to natural language and offering interactive interfaces. Users can discover these apps either through ChatGPT’s contextual suggestions or by calling them by name. For example, a user planning a party could say, “Spotify, make a playlist for my party this Friday,” and ChatGPT will automatically surface the Spotify app to fulfill the request.

“Apps in ChatGPT fit naturally into conversation,” OpenAI explained in its announcement. “You can discover them when ChatGPT suggests one at the right time, or by calling them by name.”

The feature is now available to all logged-in ChatGPT users outside the European Union, across Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans. Pilot partners, including Booking.com, Canva, Coursera, Figma, Expedia, Spotify, and Zillow, are among the first to offer their apps within ChatGPT, with more partners expected to join later this year.

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

Apps SDK, Design Guidelines, Examples

OpenAI’s new Apps SDK allows developers to create apps that integrate with ChatGPT, reaching over 800 million users. The SDK is built on the Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard that enables ChatGPT to connect with external tools and data. Developers can define their app’s interface, logic, and backend connections, ensuring a smooth user experience.

“Developers can start building and testing apps today with the new Apps SDK preview,” OpenAI stated. The company has also published design guidelines and open-source examples to help developers create apps that combine interactive elements—such as maps, playlists, and presentations—with conversational AI.

Later this year, OpenAI will begin accepting app submissions for review and publication, along with details on monetization options, including support for the Agentic Commerce Protocol, which enables instant checkout within ChatGPT.

Privacy and User Control

OpenAI emphasized that user privacy remains a priority. Apps must comply with OpenAI’s usage policies, and developers are required to provide clear privacy policies, collect only necessary data, and be transparent about permissions. Users will be prompted to connect an app the first time they use it, ensuring they understand what data may be shared.

“We’ve published a draft of our developer guidelines outlining the criteria apps must meet to be available in ChatGPT,” OpenAI noted. The company plans to introduce more granular controls later this year, allowing users to decide what specific data categories each app can access.

Future Expansion and Opportunities

OpenAI plans to expand the availability of apps to ChatGPT Business, Enterprise, and Edu users later this year. A dedicated directory will also be launched, allowing users to browse and search for apps. Apps that meet higher design and functionality standards may receive prominent placement in both the directory and conversations.

“This is just the start of apps in ChatGPT, bringing new utility to users and new opportunities for developers,” OpenAI concluded.

With this launch, OpenAI is paving the way for a new era of AI-driven interactivity, where apps and conversations merge to create more dynamic and personalized experiences.