At its Dev Day event, OpenAI announced updates that position ChatGPT as a platform for discovering and running applications, moving closer to an app store model.
OpenAI turns ChatGPT into an app platform with plugin extensions and identity sharing
A key development is the introduction of plugin extensions that allow developers to build interactive, app-like experiences directly within the ChatGPT sidebar. These extensions include interactive panels and file viewers for various formats, enabling users to utilize third-party tools without leaving the chat interface. To support developers, OpenAI is providing a new Plugin Creator tool and a redesigned submission flow for its plugin directory.
OpenAI is also rolling out "Sign in with ChatGPT," an identity-provider option that lets users access supported external applications using their ChatGPT account credentials. This feature, which includes partners such as Airtable, GitLab, HubSpot, Notion, and Vercel, allows users to carry their AI identity and subscription limits across different platforms.
On the automation front, OpenAI is adding support for the proposed Model Context Protocol (MCP) Events specification. This enables plugins to trigger automations based on specific events occurring within connected applications. Additionally, ChatGPT Sites—lightweight websites created with ChatGPT—will be able to host these plugins, allowing users to share integrated applications with colleagues while maintaining individual permissions.
To support the growing ecosystem, OpenAI is launching an enterprise app marketplace. The initial launch includes over 30 partners, such as Adobe, Figma, Salesforce, and CrowdStrike, offering services that businesses can integrate into their workflows.
Sources
- OpenAI’s latest features take direct aim at the app store model （TechCrunch AI, 2026-09-29）
- OpenAI Help Center
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- OpenAI expands ChatGPT’s plugins with app-like interfaces and automations （TechCrunch AI, 2026-09-29）
- MCP Events specification