OpenAI has rolled out a major update for ChatGPT, introducing its own App Directory. The new feature allows users to connect external services such as Gmail, Google Drive, Canva, Apple Music or Photoshop directly to the chatbot. The goal is to transform ChatGPT from a simple question-and-answer tool into a digital assistant capable of carrying out tasks, not just explaining them.

The new “apps” replace the older and more obscure “connectors” – previous integrations that linked ChatGPT with external services such as Google Drive or Slack. While these connectors allowed the chatbot to access, search, and reference stored content in its responses, they came with notable drawbacks: they were difficult to find, confusing to use and often inconsistently named.

The App Directory changes all that by making everything easily accessible in one central location, found in the top left under “Apps.” Alternatively, users can trigger functions by simply mentioning an app with an @ in the prompt. ChatGPT now goes beyond retrieving information – it can take action. For example, when working with Canva, it does not just suggest design tweaks but applies them directly. It can also create or edit text documents in connected cloud services, and with Apple Music, it can not only recommend playlists but generate them automatically.

OpenAI has also introduced new security features for businesses. In large business and enterprise accounts, administrators can control which apps are allowed and what permissions they receive. According to OpenAI, data from these environments is not used to train the AI. Community reactions have been mixed – some view the update as an exciting step toward turning ChatGPT into a true personal assistant, while others question its necessity or raise concerns about data privacy. There has also been early criticism that some apps feel underdeveloped or lack polish.

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As a child in the 90s, my Gameboy was my steady companion. After school, the PlayStation was fired up. When I finally got my first PC, I was completely hooked. My passion for gaming has never waned since. For me, writing for Notebookcheck means reporting on topics that are really close to my heart – in addition to gaming, I also like to write about e-mobility, photovoltaics and innovative gadgets. When I’m not sitting at my computer, I’m probably on water rescue duty on the Baltic coast or trying to counteract the downsides of my geek life – namely sitting for long periods – at the local swimming pool.