OpenAI and Shopify Prepare for Collaboration on ChatGPT Shopping
New Features in ChatGPT: Integration with Shopify for In-Chat Shopping
Recent updates to ChatGPT’s public web bundle indicate exciting developments for users looking to shop directly through the platform. New code elements, such as "buy_now" and references to price and shipping details, suggest that OpenAI is working to integrate a native purchase system into ChatGPT. This means users could potentially make purchases without leaving the chat interface.
Integration with Shopify
The features hint at a collaboration with Shopify, which is a leading e-commerce platform. The inclusion of terms like "shopify_checkout_url" implies that users will be redirected to a Shopify-hosted checkout rather than just being provided with a generic affiliate link. This integration aims to streamline the shopping process, allowing ChatGPT to function as a comprehensive shopping assistant.
User Experience
For users, this enhancement represents a significant improvement. Here’s how it can transform the shopping journey:
- In-Chat Purchases: Users may be able to complete purchases directly within the chat environment, reducing the need to navigate away to other websites.
- Instant Access: Shopify merchants could reach ChatGPT’s audience more effectively, as they would not need extensive setup or integration processes to sell their products.
Placement of Features
The new shopping features are expected to be integrated into the existing answer panel, alongside other recently added modules such as weather updates and market data. These strings are already present in production assets, suggesting that a public rollout may occur soon.
Competitive Landscape
ChatGPT is not the only platform advancing in this direction. Other companies are also making strides in merging e-commerce with AI:
- Microsoft’s Copilot Merchant Program: Launched on April 18, 2025, it creates an in-chat storefront for eligible sellers.
- Perplexity’s “Buy with Pro” Feature: This has been available since last November, alongside an open merchant API.
OpenAI has been exploring e-commerce functionalities through its research agent called Operator, which already facilitates travel bookings and grocery orders for Pro users.
Shopify’s AI-Driven Approach
Shopify is also aligning itself with the rise of AI. An internal memo from CEO Tobi Lütke emphasized the importance of hiring AI specialists, stating that it’s crucial to "hire an AI before you hire a human." This indicates the company’s commitment to embedding AI deeply within its platform. By partnering with OpenAI to enhance ChatGPT, Shopify aims to support what it calls "agentic commerce," allowing AI-driven interactions that go beyond mere answering of queries.
Final Thoughts
As the landscape of online shopping continues to evolve, the expected integration between ChatGPT and Shopify could set a new standard for how consumers make purchases online. By blending conversational AI with e-commerce capabilities, both companies are paving the way for a more seamless and engaging shopping experience. Users can look forward to a more efficient way to connect, browse, and pay for products all within their chats.
