OpenAI Launches "ChatGPT Apps": A New Platform Ecosystem for AI Developers

On December 18, 2025, OpenAI officially opened the doors to its next major evolution: ChatGPT Apps. Moving beyond the previous GPTs framework, this new ecosystem introduces a dedicated marketplace and a sophisticated Apps SDK, allowing developers to build deeply integrated, interactive tools that live directly within the ChatGPT interface.

Evolution from GPTs to Integrated Apps

The launch of the ChatGPT Apps store represents a significant leap in functionality, following the initial SDK announcement in October 2025.

• Advanced Interaction: Unlike the static nature of previous GPTs, "Apps" utilize new UI components, including interactive buttons, maps, and media players.
• State and Authentication: Technical capabilities now include the ability for apps to maintain state across multiple conversation rounds and securely authenticate user accounts, enabling personalized services like booking or document editing.
• Strategic Partnerships: The ecosystem features high-profile launch partners including Adobe, Canva, Spotify, Figma, Zillow, Booking.com, and Coursera. Future integrations with brands such as DoorDash, OpenTable, Target, and Uber have also been signaled.

The Developer Roadmap: Submit Now, Launch in 2026

OpenAI began accepting official app submissions on December 17, 2025, just one day prior to the store's public unveiling. However, there is a clear distinction between the store's launch and app availability:

• Review Process: All submissions must undergo a rigorous review process by OpenAI to ensure safety and performance standards.
• Phased Rollout: While the store is visible, the first wave of reviewed third-party applications is scheduled to begin rolling out to users in early 2026.
• Model Integration: Developers can build using OpenAI’s frontier models, including the recently released GPT-5.2, to power complex reasoning and agentic workflows within their apps.

Monetization and Strategic Outlook

While OpenAI has confirmed that a monetization framework is a core part of the roadmap, specific details regarding revenue-sharing models or payment structures have not yet been released. Currently, the focus is on expanding utility for Plus, Team, and Enterprise subscribers.

By hosting third-party services natively, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT as a cross-platform "AI Operating System." This move creates a centralized hub that challenges the integrated AI approaches of Google Gemini and Apple Intelligence, aiming to keep users within the ChatGPT ecosystem for tasks ranging from professional productivity to daily lifestyle needs.