ChatGPT launches the App Directory and a new workflow for building apps inside ChatGPT

OpenAI has officially launched the ChatGPT App Directory, opening a new distribution channel for developers to publish applications that run directly inside ChatGPT.

Starting now, developers can submit their ChatGPT apps for review. Once approved, apps become discoverable in a dedicated directory, allowing users to search for and access apps without leaving ChatGPT. This marks a clear shift from experiments like plugins and GPTs toward a more structured and scalable app ecosystem.

How ChatGPT apps work

Apps inside ChatGPT are built using the new Apps SDK. The SDK is designed for chat-native experiences and focuses on tightly scoped use cases rather than generic assistants.

To help developers get started, OpenAI provides:

• Open-source example apps
• An open-source UI library for chat-first interfaces
• A step-by-step quickstart guide

Submitting an app

Apps are submitted through the OpenAI Developer Platform, where developers can:

• Submit apps for review
• Track review status
• Manage app metadata for the directory
• Configure availability and access settings

OpenAI has also updated its submission guidelines, detailing what they evaluate around quality, UX, safety, privacy, and transparency.

What this means for businesses

The App Directory turns ChatGPT into a new distribution and monetization channel for businesses. Companies can now offer their platforms and services directly inside ChatGPT.

This makes it dramatically easier for end users to discover, try, and use services in a context they already trust and use daily. As discovery, monetization, and distribution evolve, businesses gain a new way to increase reach, engagement, and revenue.

GPTApps

This launch validates our focus and direction. GPTApps is an agency dedicated to designing and building applications specifically for ChatGPT and its app ecosystem.

We have already developed several ChatGPT applications and look forward to publish our first apps in the ChatGPT marketplace. This marks the beginning of a new category of software, and we are excited to help businesses turn their services into high-quality, discoverable ChatGPT apps.