OpenAI has announced a major update to ChatGPT, the introduction of chat-based apps and a new Apps SDK that allows developers to build them.

With this update, users can now interact with apps directly inside ChatGPT conversations. These apps respond naturally to messages and can include interactive elements such as maps, playlists, and presentations. The idea is simple: apps appear when they are relevant to the conversation, making ChatGPT more useful for everyday tasks.

What Users Can Expect

Apps are now available to all logged-in ChatGPT users (outside the EU) on Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans. The first set of partners includes:

1. Booking.com
2. Canva
3. Coursera
4. Expedia
5. Figma
6. Spotify
7. Zillow

For example, a user planning a trip can ask, “Find me a hotel in Paris,” and ChatGPT can surface the Booking.com app to display hotel options directly in the chat. Similarly, if someone is discussing home buying, ChatGPT can bring up the Zillow app for browsing listings on an interactive map.

How Developers Can Build

Developers can start creating apps using the Apps SDK, now available in preview. The SDK is built on the Model Context Protocol (MCP) — an open standard that connects ChatGPT to external tools and data. It enables developers to define both the logic and interface of their apps, with flexibility to integrate existing systems and premium features.

OpenAI has also made the SDK open source, along with documentation and example apps to help developers design experiences that combine conversation and interaction seamlessly.

Focus on Privacy and Safety

Every app available in ChatGPT must comply with OpenAI’s usage policies, privacy requirements, and content standards. Developers are required to provide clear privacy policies and collect only the data necessary for functionality. Users will always be prompted before connecting an app, ensuring transparency about what data may be shared.

This marks the beginning of a new phase for ChatGPT one where users can interact with familiar tools directly through conversation, and developers can build meaningful experiences that meet people where they already chat.