Developers can now submit their apps to ChatGPT, marking a major expansion of the platform’s ecosystem. OpenAI confirmed that app submissions are officially open, following the initial announcement at its recent DevDay event. The move allows developers to publish apps that extend ChatGPT conversations with real actions and added context. These apps can help users complete everyday tasks directly within chats. For example, users can order groceries, create slide decks, or search for apartments without leaving ChatGPT. This development positions ChatGPT as more than a chatbot, while turning it into a conversation-first application platform. The company said approved apps will begin rolling out gradually in the new year. This phased approach aims to maintain quality, safety, and performance across regions.
Earlier this year, OpenAI previewed the app concept during DevDay to selected developers. Since then, the company has tested workflows and gathered feedback from early partners. Now, submissions are open to a wider developer base through the OpenAI Developer Platform. Developers must follow published app submission guidelines before review. These guidelines focus on user safety, data privacy, and clear value delivery. OpenAI says it learned important lessons since DevDay, which shaped its best practice documents. As a result, new resources are now available for developers preparing their apps.
Apps in ChatGPT are designed to feel natural within conversations. Instead of switching between apps, users can continue chatting while apps work in the background. Once connected, apps can be triggered using an @ mention by name. Users can also select apps directly from the tools menu. In addition, OpenAI is testing ways to surface relevant apps automatically during conversations. These suggestions rely on conversational context, user preferences, and usage patterns. However, users retain full control over whether to use or ignore these suggestions. Feedback tools are also included to improve future recommendations.
To support discovery, OpenAI has introduced an app directory inside ChatGPT. Users can browse featured apps or search for specific ones. The directory is accessible from the tools menu or directly via chatgpt.com/apps. Developers can also use deep links from external platforms. These links send users directly to an app’s directory page. This approach mirrors app store discovery models while keeping interactions chat-focused. OpenAI believes this will help both new and established developers reach relevant audiences faster.
Building a ChatGPT app starts with identifying real user intent. OpenAI recommends focusing on tightly scoped use cases that work naturally in chat. Developers can use the Apps SDK, currently in beta, to create these experiences. The SDK helps apps bring context and action directly into conversations. According to OpenAI, the strongest apps either complete real workflows or enable new AI-native experiences. Examples include planning tasks, managing information, or automating decisions. Developers are encouraged to review submission rules early to avoid delays.
Alongside the SDK, OpenAI has released open-source example apps. These examples show how to design intuitive chat flows. An open-sourced UI library is also available for chat-native interfaces. This library helps developers maintain consistent interaction patterns. A step-by-step quickstart guide further simplifies onboarding. Together, these resources aim to reduce development friction, especially for smaller teams. Industry analysts note that this lowers the entry barrier for startups and independent developers.
Once development is complete, apps can be submitted for review. Developers can track approval status directly within the OpenAI Developer Platform. Submissions require MCP connectivity details and testing guidelines. Developers must also provide directory metadata and country availability settings. Apps that meet quality and safety standards become eligible for listing. OpenAI may also feature high-performing apps more prominently. In some cases, ChatGPT may recommend these apps during relevant conversations.
Monetization options remain limited in the early phase. Currently, developers can link users to external websites or native apps. This applies mainly to physical goods and external transactions. OpenAI confirmed it is exploring additional monetization models. These may include support for digital goods in the future. The company said it will share updates after observing real-world usage. For now, the focus remains on building trust and utility.
Safety and privacy remain central to the app ecosystem. All developers must comply with OpenAI’s usage policies. Apps must be appropriate for all audiences and follow third-party service rules. Clear privacy policies are mandatory for every submission. Developers are also required to request only essential user data. When users connect an app, ChatGPT discloses shared data types. The app’s privacy policy is shown before activation. Users can disconnect apps anytime, instantly revoking access.
Looking ahead, OpenAI sees apps as a natural extension of conversation. The goal is to help users move from ideas to action seamlessly. At the same time, the company wants to build a sustainable developer ecosystem. OpenAI plans to improve app discovery and recommendation systems. It also aims to expand ways developers can reach users. Over time, ChatGPT apps may become a standard layer for digital services. This shift reflects a broader trend toward conversational interfaces. For developers, the opportunity lies in meeting users where conversations already happen.
Abhijeet is a software engineer who moonlights as a tech writer. His love for gadgets, mobile innovations, and smart devices keeps him closely connected to India’s fast-growing tech scene. When he’s not coding, he’s usually testing the latest earbuds or Android updates.