OpenAI has unveiled a major update to ChatGPT, marking its evolution from a conversational AI into a versatile digital assistant capable of directly interacting with popular third-party applications. Announced at the company’s annual Dev Day 2025 conference, the new feature—called “apps inside ChatGPT”—allows users to access and control services such as Spotify, Canva, Booking.com, Expedia, Coursera, Figma, and Zillow without leaving the chat interface.
Seamless interaction with third-party apps
The new integration enables apps to appear naturally within conversations or be called up directly by name. For instance, a user can type, “Create an upbeat playlist for my workout on Spotify,” and ChatGPT will open Spotify within the chat, allowing real-time preview and editing. Similarly, users can ask Canva to “design an Instagram post about the Singapore Grand Prix 2025,” or use Booking.com and Expedia to find flights and accommodation instantly.
You can now chat with apps in ChatGPT. pic.twitter.com/T9Owi3POim
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) October 6, 2025
By combining conversational prompts with interactive app functions, OpenAI aims to simplify routine online tasks, providing a more intuitive and efficient experience. The company says the feature is designed to streamline everyday digital workflows, from travel planning to creation, through natural conversation.
Developer opportunities and privacy controls
This new capability is powered by OpenAI’s Apps SDK, which is now available for developers to preview and test. OpenAI expects a steady expansion of app integrations over the coming months, including tools for food delivery, health, productivity, and finance. The SDK offers developers a way to build apps that can respond dynamically within ChatGPT conversations, effectively transforming the platform into a central hub for digital interaction.
Despite the excitement, OpenAI acknowledges potential concerns about data security and privacy. The company has stated that “these remain central to the rollout,” ensuring that every app must comply with strict data protection and transparency standards. Developers are “required to provide clear privacy policies, collect only the data necessary for functionality, and be transparent about permissions.”
When connecting an app for the first time, users will be prompted to review the data that will be shared with the app. Later this year, OpenAI intends to introduce advanced privacy settings, allowing users to specify which data categories each app can access for personalisation purposes.
Rollout and future plans
The feature begins rolling out today for all logged-in ChatGPT users on the Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans, except those in the European Union. Users can try an app by summoning it by name or accepting ChatGPT’s in-chat suggestions. On the first use, the chatbot will request permission to connect the user’s account and explain the data-sharing terms.
In the coming months, OpenAI plans to extend the feature to ChatGPT Business, Enterprise, and Edu customers. A public app directory is also in development, where users will be able to browse, search, and discover integrations. Apps that demonstrate “higher standards of design and functionality” will receive greater visibility within the directory and in user conversations.
Finally, OpenAI hinted at upcoming integrations with other primary services, including Uber, DoorDash, TripAdvisor, and Target. These future additions are expected to broaden ChatGPT’s role as a digital assistant capable of managing a wide range of online activities.
