OpenAI expands ChatGPT plugins with app-like interfaces and automations

OpenAI announced plugin extensions that let developers build app-like experiences within ChatGPT. They can include a dedicated home in the sidebar, interactive panels for using tools while chatting, and file viewers compatible with the formats supported by each product. The company also introduced Plugin Creator, a new submission flow for the directory, and improvements to plugin recommendations and discovery.

Users will be able to approve each plugin’s requested permissions individually. OpenAI said plugins can also be hosted on ChatGPT Sites, allowing users to share them with colleagues who use their own connected data and permissions. The company also said it will support the proposed MCP Events specification, which could let plugins start automations based on events in connected apps, while making automations easier to add and manage.