OpenAI’s ChatGPT May Soon Let You Shop Without Leaving the Chat

OpenAI appears to be gearing up to launch a shopping feature within ChatGPT through a native integration with Shopify, the popular e-commerce platform. This upcoming capability was first hinted at by TestingCatalog, which spotted several new strings of code embedded in ChatGPT’s public web bundle. These include terms like “buy_now,” shipping details, product pricing, user ratings, and even a direct “shopify_checkout_url,” all of which suggest a shopping-focused upgrade is on the horizon.

The code changes point to a formal collaboration between OpenAI and Shopify, implying a seamless in-app shopping experience rather than a workaround or unofficial plugin. If fully implemented, this would allow users to shop within ChatGPT itself without the need to visit external websites, potentially transforming the chatbot into a multi-functional commerce platform.

Interestingly, elements of this feature have already been deployed among ChatGPT’s production assets, hinting that its public launch could happen soon. The development is drawing mixed reactions online, especially on X (formerly Twitter). Some users are enthusiastic, suggesting that such enhancements could evolve ChatGPT beyond a conversational tool into an all-in-one digital assistant. Others have expressed skepticism, with some critiques noting a shift from OpenAI’s initial vision of pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI) to more commercial ventures like online shopping.

Historically, OpenAI attempted to bring in external functionality through a plugin system, but later discontinued it due to safety concerns such as prompt injection and malicious third-party code. Rather than reintroducing plugins, OpenAI now seems to be exploring direct partnerships with trusted companies like Shopify for safer, built-in integrations.

This move follows a growing trend. Other tech players like Perplexity and Microsoft have already introduced e-commerce options within their AI tools-‘Buy with Pro’ and the Copilot Merchant Program, respectively. Meanwhile, Shopify itself has been increasingly embracing AI, with CEO Tobias Lütke recently encouraging company-wide adoption. In an internal memo, he highlighted that teams requesting new hires must demonstrate why AI tools can’t handle the responsibilities instead.

Overall, OpenAI’s latest step suggests a strategic effort to broaden ChatGPT’s utility, possibly redefining what a chatbot can do in the everyday digital ecosystem.