OpenAI lets developers submit apps for ChatGPT review

OpenAI has started allowing developers to submit apps for review and publication on ChatGPT.

Approved apps will appear in a new app directory within ChatGPT, where users can browse, search, and access them directly.

Developers can build apps using OpenAI’s Apps SDK, currently in beta, to create chat-native experiences.

Apps must pass OpenAI’s quality, safety, privacy, and transparency standards to be published or featured.

In this early stage, developers can link to external sites to complete transactions for physical goods.

OpenAI said it is exploring further monetization options and will share updates as the ecosystem evolves.

🔗 Source: OpenAI

🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

OpenAI has not shared the revenue split, how payouts work, or when in‑ChatGPT app earnings might start; the company says it is exploring more options over time 1.
Right now, apps can only link out to sell physical products on external sites; digital goods, subscriptions, and in‑app services are not allowed 2.
This setup departs from established platforms. The GPT Store (a previously teased OpenAI marketplace for custom GPT-based apps) has a rumored 20–40% revenue share 3 that remains unconfirmed, and in‑chat purchases announced for Etsy sellers (Etsy is an e‑commerce marketplace) carry undisclosed commissions 4.
With no clear plan on usage-based pay, transaction fees, or subscription splits, developers cannot judge whether building on ChatGPT is worth it versus web or mobile apps.

Third‑party teams can sell compliance tooling that helps app creators pass OpenAI’s required review before listing in the directory 1.
Every listing must include clear privacy policies, transparent data‑collection disclosures, and user control interfaces 2. Teams often lack the in‑house skills to build this well 2.
Vendors focused on privacy UI parts, data‑handling frameworks, and safety checks could ship SDKs or consulting aligned with OpenAI’s submission rules 2.
Listing requires organization verification (confirmation of a developer’s business identity) and approval through OpenAI’s review before it goes live 5. That creates demand for tools that automate checks and speed the submission to approval cycle for teams aiming at ChatGPT’s 800M+ users 1.