OpenAI launched the ChatGPT App Store on December 18, 2025, transforming the AI chatbot into a full platform. Users can now access third-party apps directly within ChatGPT conversations without switching between tabs or downloading separate software. This article explains what the ChatGPT App Store is, how it works, and how you can start using it today.
What Is the ChatGPT App Store?
The ChatGPT App Store is a built-in directory of third-party applications that work inside ChatGPT conversations. Users can browse, connect, and use apps like Spotify, DoorDash, Zillow, and Apple Music without leaving the chat interface.
Here's what makes the ChatGPT App Store different from traditional app stores:
| Feature | ChatGPT App Store | Traditional App Stores |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | No downloads needed | Must download and install |
| Access | Inside ChatGPT conversations | Separate apps on device |
| Interaction | Natural language commands | Traditional menus and buttons |
| Context | Uses conversation history | Starts fresh each time |
| Platform | Web, iOS, Android | Device-specific |
The App Store includes apps in three main categories: Featured, Lifestyle, and Productivity. Each app connects to ChatGPT through OpenAI's Apps SDK, which allows developers to create experiences designed for conversational use.
How the ChatGPT App Store Works
The ChatGPT App Store changes how people interact with digital services. Instead of opening multiple apps to complete tasks, users accomplish everything through natural conversation.
Finding and Connecting Apps
Users access the App Store through the tools menu in ChatGPT or by visiting chatgpt.com/apps. The directory shows available apps with descriptions of what each one does.
Connecting an app takes three simple steps:
- Click on the app you want to use
- Click "Connect" and authorize access
- Start using the app in your conversations
The first time you connect an app, ChatGPT shows you what data the app can access. This keeps your information secure and gives you control over permissions.
Using Apps in Conversations
After connecting an app, you can use it in two ways:
Method 1: Mention by Name
Start your message with the app name: "@Spotify, make a 90s rock playlist" or "Zillow, find apartments in Manhattan under $3000."
Method 2: Contextual Suggestions
ChatGPT suggests relevant apps based on your conversation. If you discuss travel plans, it might suggest Booking.com or Expedia. If you talk about presentations, it might recommend Canva or Figma.
Apps respond to your requests and display interactive elements right in the chat. You can browse playlists, view maps, create presentations, and complete purchases without leaving ChatGPT.
Available Apps and What They Do
The ChatGPT App Store launched with popular apps across multiple categories. Here are the key apps and their uses:
Music and Entertainment
Spotify creates custom playlists based on your preferences. Ask for workout music, party playlists, or songs from specific decades.
Apple Music generates playlists using conversational prompts. You can find songs, explore new music, and add tracks to your library instantly.
Travel and Booking
Expedia searches for flights and hotels based on your budget and preferences. Use specific filters or vague descriptions like "hotels that feel fancy."
Booking.com finds accommodations and helps plan trips. It works with natural language requests for dates, locations, and price ranges.
Zillow shows real estate listings on interactive maps. Browse homes that match your budget and requirements without switching to a browser.
Productivity and Work
Google Drive lets ChatGPT access, search, and summarize your stored documents. Get insights from files without opening them separately.
Dropbox provides similar file access. ChatGPT can gather information, prepare briefs, and summarize reports from your Dropbox account.
Gmail helps manage your inbox through AI-powered summaries, highlights, and draft replies. Achieve inbox zero faster with ChatGPT's help.
GitHub connects your code repositories to ChatGPT. Analyze, search, and reference code directly in conversations.
Design and Creativity
Canva transforms outlines into slide decks and creates visual content. Generate presentations through simple text descriptions.
Adobe Photoshop brings image editing tools into ChatGPT. Make adjustments and edits using conversational commands.
Figma creates presentations, infographics, and design assets. Build professional visuals without leaving your chat.
Food and Shopping
DoorDash enables grocery and food ordering through ChatGPT. Place orders using natural language descriptions of what you want.
Instacart turns ChatGPT into a grocery shopping assistant. Build shopping carts and place orders conversationally.
Education and Learning
Coursera provides access to online courses. Ask for videos on specific topics and learn while ChatGPT helps explain concepts.
AllTrails offers hiking trail recommendations. Get advice on hundreds of thousands of trails based on your preferences and location.
How to Start Using the ChatGPT App Store
Getting started with the ChatGPT App Store requires just a few simple steps.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Open ChatGPT on web, iOS, or Android
- Look for "Apps" in the left sidebar or tools menu
- Click to open the App Directory
- Browse available apps or search for specific ones
- Select an app you want to use
- Review what data the app can access
- Click "Connect" to authorize the app
- Start using the app in your conversations
Tips for Best Results
Be Specific With Requests
Instead of "find me music," try "@Spotify, create a high-energy workout playlist with 2000s hip-hop."
Use Context From Your Conversation
Apps work better when they understand what you're discussing. Talk about your needs first, then let ChatGPT suggest relevant apps.
Try Multiple Apps for the Same Task
Different apps have different strengths. Test both Spotify and Apple Music to see which gives better results for your music taste.
Check Privacy Settings Regularly
Review which apps have access to your data. Disconnect apps you no longer use to maintain privacy.
Combine Multiple Apps
Use several apps in one conversation. Plan a trip with Expedia, create a packing list with Google Drive, and share it through Gmail.
Building Apps for the ChatGPT App Store
OpenAI opened the ChatGPT App Store to developers on December 18, 2025. Developers can now submit apps for review and reach over 800 million ChatGPT users.
Developer Requirements and Tools
OpenAI provides several resources for developers:
| Resource | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Apps SDK | Build chat-native experiences |
| Model Context Protocol | Connect external tools and data |
| Developer Guidelines | Standards for app approval |
| Example Apps | Open-source code samples |
| UI Library | Pre-built interface components |
| Quickstart Guide | Step-by-step development instructions |
Apps must meet specific technical standards:
- Built on Model Context Protocol (MCP)
- HTTPS endpoints with valid certificates
- Response times under 3 seconds for 95% of requests
- Proper error handling
- Clear privacy policies
- Appropriate for all audiences
- Compliance with OpenAI usage policies
The App Submission Process
Developers submit apps through the OpenAI Developer Platform. The submission includes:
- MCP connectivity details
- Testing guidelines
- Directory metadata (name, description, category)
- Country availability settings
- Privacy policy
Apps go through automated technical testing and manual review. Approved apps appear in the directory gradually starting in 2025.
Monetization Options
Currently, developers can monetize apps by linking to their websites or native apps for purchases. OpenAI is exploring additional monetization options for the future:
Available Now:
- Link to external websites for transactions
- Direct users to native apps for purchases
- Charge for physical goods outside ChatGPT
Coming Later:
- Digital goods purchases inside ChatGPT
- Subscription options within the app store
- Revenue sharing models
- Support for Agentic Commerce Protocol (instant checkout)
OpenAI plans to share more monetization details as the ecosystem develops. The company wants to create multiple ways for developers to earn revenue while providing value to users.
Privacy and Security in the ChatGPT App Store
OpenAI built privacy protections into every part of the App Store. Users control which apps can access their data and what information gets shared.
How Privacy Protection Works
User Consent Before Data Sharing
ChatGPT shows a permission screen before any app accesses your information. You see exactly what data the app wants and can decline if you're uncomfortable.
Minimal Data Access
Apps must request only the information they need to function. Developers cannot access unrelated data from your account.
Transparent Privacy Policies
Every app includes a clear privacy policy. Read it before connecting to understand how your data gets used.
Easy Permission Management
Disconnect apps anytime through your settings. Revoking access stops the app from accessing your data immediately.
Security Standards for Developers
OpenAI requires all apps to meet strict security standards:
- Apps undergo automated security scans
- Manual review checks for potential vulnerabilities
- No malware or deceptive code allowed
- Regular security updates required
- Compliance with third-party service terms
The company removes apps that violate security policies or compromise user data.
Common Questions About the ChatGPT App Store
Which ChatGPT plans can use the App Store?
The App Store works for all logged-in ChatGPT users on Free, Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, and Education plans. However, some apps may not be available in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom.
Do I need to pay for apps?
Most apps in the directory are free to connect. Some apps require subscriptions to their own services (like Spotify Premium or Apple Music).
Can I use apps offline?
No. Apps require an internet connection since they run inside ChatGPT conversations.
How many apps can I connect?
There is no limit to how many apps you can connect to your ChatGPT account.
Can I disconnect apps?
Yes. Visit your settings or the App Directory to manage connected apps. Disconnect any app you no longer want to use.
Are my conversations with apps private?
Apps can only access the data you explicitly share through your conversations. OpenAI's privacy policy governs how conversation data gets handled.
How do I know if an app is safe?
All apps in the directory passed OpenAI's security review. Check the privacy policy and user reviews before connecting.
Can developers see my ChatGPT history?
No. Apps only see the specific information you share during conversations where the app is active.
The Future of the ChatGPT App Store
OpenAI plans to expand the App Store significantly in 2025 and beyond. The company wants to create a complete ecosystem where ChatGPT becomes the central hub for digital tasks.
Upcoming Features
Enhanced Discovery
OpenAI is testing ways to suggest apps at the perfect moment in conversations. The system will use conversation context, usage patterns, and preferences to recommend helpful apps.
Better Developer Tools
More reusable components and faster development tools are coming soon. This will make it easier for developers to build high-quality apps.
Expanded Monetization
Support for digital goods, subscriptions, and instant checkout will arrive later in 2025. This gives developers more ways to earn revenue.
Geographic Expansion
OpenAI is working to bring the App Store to users in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Advanced App Features
Future apps will have deeper integration with ChatGPT's capabilities, including access to custom GPTs and advanced AI features.
What This Means for Users
The ChatGPT App Store transforms how people use digital services. Instead of juggling multiple apps and browser tabs, users accomplish tasks through natural conversation.
This shift could change several industries:
Search and Discovery
People might use ChatGPT to find products and services instead of traditional search engines.
App Distribution
Developers get a new way to reach users without relying on Apple or Google's app stores.
E-commerce
Shopping through conversational AI could replace browsing traditional websites.
Productivity
Connecting work tools to ChatGPT creates seamless workflows that save time.
Getting the Most From the ChatGPT App Store
The ChatGPT App Store represents a major shift in how we interact with technology. By bringing apps into conversations, OpenAI makes digital services more accessible and intuitive.
Start exploring the App Store today by connecting apps that match your needs. Try music apps for entertainment, productivity apps for work, and travel apps for planning trips. Experiment with different combinations to find workflows that save you time.
As more developers build apps and OpenAI adds features, the App Store will become even more powerful. The future of digital interaction is conversational, and the ChatGPT App Store is leading the way.
Connect your first app now and experience the next generation of AI-powered assistance.