ChatGPT is about to get a major upgrade by integrating with popular third-party apps like Spotify and Canva. This new functionality, announced during OpenAI’s DevDay, is powered by the company’s new Apps SDK and will allow users to interact with their favorite services directly within the ChatGPT interface. For users, this means you can now access these apps simply by mentioning them in your conversation with the chatbot. For example, you could type something like, Spotify, make a playlist for my party this Friday. The first time you reference an app in this manner, ChatGPT will prompt you to connect your account. Once linked, you can use natural language to make requests. In the case of Spotify, you can ask for music recommendations based on a specific mood, theme, or topic. The chatbot will then generate a playlist suggestion. It is important to note that ChatGPT itself does not generate the final playlists. The process will ultimately direct you to the Spotify app where you can listen to and finalize the created playlist. Spotify has stated that the integration is in its early stages and they plan to refine and improve the experience over the coming weeks and months. During its presentation, OpenAI demonstrated other practical uses for these integrated apps. An employee showed how Canva could be used to design posters for a hypothetical dog-walking business that was discussed with ChatGPT. This highlights the potential for seamless workflow integration, moving from planning and ideation to creation without leaving the chat environment. As of the initial launch, the apps available for connection include Canva, Coursera, Figma, Spotify, and Zillow. This selection is set to expand soon. OpenAI has confirmed that integrations with DoorDash, OpenTable, Target, and Uber will be available in the coming weeks. Looking ahead, OpenAI is developing submission guidelines for developers and plans to begin accepting app submissions for review and publication later this year. This program will also include a pathway for developers to monetize their creations, signaling a significant expansion of the ChatGPT ecosystem. A correction was issued regarding the initial reporting on the Spotify integration, clarifying that while ChatGPT can initiate the process and make recommendations, it does not generate the final playlists itself.
