OpenAI Expands ChatGPT with App-Like Plug-In Interfaces and Automation Support

Plug-In Extensions Bring Dedicated App Spaces to ChatGPT

During Tuesday’s DevDay presentation, OpenAI announced that developers can now craft app-like experiences directly within ChatGPT using new plug-in extensions. While the company has already introduced productivity tools such as Pages, Slides, and Space, the AI lab is broadening its focus to any application that could benefit from deeper ChatGPT integration.

OpenAI already supports plug-ins that link ChatGPT to popular services like Slack, SharePoint, Airtable, and Google Drive. The updated extensions give each app a dedicated spot in the ChatGPT sidebar, and developers can build interactive panels that let users manipulate their tools while chatting. These panels may also include file viewers capable of handling the specific formats used by a developer’s product.

Developer Tools and Discovery Improvements

To simplify creation and discovery, OpenAI is providing a new Plugin Creator tool and a redesigned submission process that delivers clearer feedback to developers. The company also refined the ranking and recommendation algorithm for plug-ins both in the directory and during conversations, and users can now approve a plug-in’s access requirements on an individual basis.

ChatGPT Sites Enable Shared Plug-In Use

ChatGPT Sites, the lightweight websites users can construct with ChatGPT, can now host these plug-ins as well. This enables creators to share their applications with colleagues, who can then run them using their own connected data and permissions.

Automation Support via MCP Events

In addition, OpenAI is adopting the proposed MCP Events specification, allowing plug-ins to trigger automations in response to events occurring in linked applications. The company says it is also streamlining the process of adding and managing these automations.