Following an earlier announcement at DevDay, developers can now officially submit applications for review and integration into ChatGPT following OpenAI's app submission guidelines. These applications enhance ChatGPT conversations by introducing additional context and enabling actions such as ordering food, creating presentations from outlines, or searching for housing.
App Directory Launch
OpenAI has launched an integrated app directory within ChatGPT where users can explore featured applications or search for published ones. The directory is accessible through the tools menu or directly at chatgpt.com/apps. Developers have the ability to utilize deep links on external platforms to direct users to their specific app pages within the directory.
Applications can be activated during conversations through @ mentions by name or selection from the tools menu. OpenAI is testing methods to automatically suggest relevant applications within conversations based on contextual signals, usage patterns, and user preferences, with mechanisms for users to provide feedback.
Development and Submission Process
Creating effective ChatGPT applications requires focusing on genuine user needs. Developers utilize the Apps SDK, currently in beta, to create chat-native experiences that integrate context and functionality directly into ChatGPT. Successful applications are focused in scope, intuitive for chat interactions, and provide tangible value by either completing workflows initiated in conversation or enabling innovative AI-native experiences.
Developers can track submission and approval status through the OpenAI Developer Platform. Submissions must include MCP connectivity specifications, testing protocols, directory information, and regional availability configurations. Initial approved applications will begin deployment gradually in the coming year. Applications meeting OpenAI's quality and safety requirements qualify for directory publication, with high-performing apps potentially receiving prominent featuring or recommendations.
Revenue Generation Options
During this initial phase, developers can redirect users from their ChatGPT applications to their external websites or native applications to finalize purchases of physical products. OpenAI is investigating additional revenue streams, including digital product sales, and will provide updates as the ecosystem develops.
Security and Data Protection
All developers must adhere to OpenAI's app submission guidelines regarding security, privacy, and transparency. Applications must align with OpenAI's usage policies, maintain content suitable for all users, and comply with external service agreements when accessing third-party content. Clear privacy policies are mandatory for each submission, and developers should only collect information essential for app functionality.
OpenAI discloses potential data sharing with third parties when users connect to new applications and provides access to privacy policies for review. Users maintain full control and can disconnect applications at any time, immediately terminating data access.
Future Development
This marks the initial phase of app integration in ChatGPT. OpenAI's vision involves applications becoming seamless conversation extensions, facilitating the transition from concepts to implementation while cultivating a robust developer ecosystem. Based on feedback from developers and users, OpenAI will continue enhancing the platform experience, expanding the application ecosystem, improving discovery mechanisms, and broadening developer opportunities for user engagement and revenue generation.