ChatGPT just got an app store as developers can build apps directly inside the chatbot

OpenAI has unveiled a groundbreaking app store embedded directly in ChatGPT, signaling a new era for the AI chatbot. This innovative feature is designed to extend ChatGPT's functionality beyond merely answering user inquiries. By releasing the ChatGPT Software Development Kit (SDK), developers are now empowered to create custom applications that integrate seamlessly within the ChatGPT environment. This new app store allows users to explore a variety of applications tailored to specific AI-powered features that ChatGPT may not currently provide. According to a recent announcement from OpenAI, the app SDK is still in the testing stage. Developers interested in building apps for ChatGPT will need to submit their creations to OpenAI’s Developer platform for approval before they can be made available to users. OpenAI has indicated that once approved, these applications could start appearing within ChatGPT by 2026, significantly enhancing the chatbot's capabilities. Users can expect to leverage selected apps for a multitude of tasks, including executing actions on their behalf, gathering and referencing information from various data sources, conducting extensive research with citations, and syncing information to maintain an up-to-date knowledge base. With this app ecosystem, ChatGPT is not just enhancing its core AI functionalities but is also set to incorporate third-party services directly into its chat interface. Notable platforms like Spotify, Canva, and Booking.com are among those expected to be integrated, propelling ChatGPT towards becoming a comprehensive all-in-one application rather than a simple AI chatbot.