US: OpenAI has launched third-party apps within ChatGPT, starting with travel giants Expedia and Booking.com, allowing users to research and book trips directly through the chatbot.
The move follows the launch of OpenAI’s new Apps SDK (software development kit), which enables developers to create integrated experiences within ChatGPT. The feature opens ChatGPT’s 800-million-strong user base to external brands, creating a new distribution channel for travel companies.
Through the new integrations, users can access real-time flight and hotel data, compare prices, and view interactive maps without leaving ChatGPT. OpenAI confirmed that additional apps from Tripadvisor, Uber, and TheFork will be added soon, alongside other brands including Spotify, Canva, Figma, Zillow, and Coursera.
Booking.com said the partnership builds on its ongoing collaboration with OpenAI to improve the booking process. “With this feature, travellers have a new avenue to explore hotels, homes and unique places to stay on our platform,” the company stated.
The new apps are powered by OpenAI’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), which allows ChatGPT to securely connect to external tools and data sources. Users can either invoke apps by name during a conversation or be prompted by ChatGPT when a relevant app is available.
Highlights
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OpenAI integrates third-party apps within ChatGPT using its new Apps SDK.
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Expedia and Booking.com are the first travel brands to launch on the platform.
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Users can access live flight and accommodation data and view interactive maps.
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Upcoming integrations include Tripadvisor, Uber, and TheFork.
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The system uses OpenAI’s Model Context Protocol to link ChatGPT with external data.
