OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has postponed the launch of its anticipated custom GPT store to early 2024. This decision revealed through an internal memo obtained by Reuters on December 1, marks a significant shift from the company’s initial plans.
Initial announcement and subsequent changes
At its inaugural developer conference in November, OpenAI unveiled the custom GPTs and their associated store, with an expected launch later in the same month. However, recent internal developments, including the temporary removal and reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman, have contributed to this delay.
The reasons behind the postponement
OpenAI uses this extra time to refine the GPTs based on user feedback. In an email to those registered for its GPT Builder, the company mentioned that unforeseen commitments had pushed back the store’s opening. Initially slated for a December launch, the revised plan now sets the launch for early next year.
A tumultuous week for OpenAI
The company has faced a turbulent period, dealing with Altman’s ouster, employee unrest, and leadership changes. Despite these challenges, OpenAI assured that it would continue to update ChatGPT and improve the functionalities of the custom GPT platform.
The vision for the GPT store
The GPT store is envisioned as a marketplace for OpenAI’s GPT builders to sell and share their creations. Upon announcing custom GPTs, OpenAI had promised to compensate creators for their GPTs based on usage, although the specifics of this compensation were not detailed.
OpenAI has delayed the launch of its custom GPT store to early 2024, due to a combination of internal adjustments and a focus on enhancing the product based on customer feedback.
