OpenAI has expanded its ChatGPT tool once again, adding a feature that will let developers build applications inside the chatbot. This will allow users to interact with different applications from big-name brands without having to leave the chat interface.
While developers can build new apps, OpenAI has announced a set of pre-approved options to kick-start the process. The full list of pilot partners is Booking.com, Canva, Coursera, Figma, Expedia, Spotify and Zillow, and more companies will be added later this year.
“Apps in ChatGPT fit naturally into conversation. You can discover them when ChatGPT suggests one at the right time, or by calling them by name. Apps respond to natural language and include interactive interfaces you can use right in the chat,” it was stated in OpenAI’s announcement blog post.
“For ChatGPT users, apps meet you in the chat and adapt to your context to help you create, learn, and do more. For developers, building with the Apps SDK makes it possible to reach over 800 million ChatGPT users at just the right time.”
This feature will be available to anyone logged in to a ChatGPT account, whether it’s a free or paid-for account. However, it isn’t available to those within the EU yet, but OpenAI has stated it will come to these regions soon.
Some of the other apps that are set to be rolled out in the future include AllTrails, DoorDash, Khan Academy, Instacart, Peloton, OpenTable, Target, TheFork, TripAdvisor, Thumbtack and Uber.
Developers can build their own apps to be added to the list that can be used within ChatGPT. However, developers will need to submit their apps and get them reviewed by OpenAI before they are published.
In the future, ChatGPT will have a directory from which you can search and select different tools to use. Similar to an app store, these will allow you to expand how you use ChatGPT.
How to use an app in ChatGPT
To utilise these apps, you simply need to name them within a reasonable prompt. For example, “Spotify, make me a playlist for a fun BBQ event”.
ChatGPT will prompt you to connect the app the first time you try it, but from then on, the two apps will sync naturally.
While you can seek the apps out by specifically asking ChatGPT a relevant request that uses them, the chatbot will also try to surface apps when you ask queries that they can be helpful in answering.
If you ask queries about buying a new house, the Zillow app might pop up with some suggestions.
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