OpenAI is poised to introduce a new online shopping feature to ChatGPT, enabling direct purchases within the chat interface. This functionality is enabled by the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP), developed in partnership with Stripe. This will allow users to buy items directly from vendors within ChatGPT. The first iteration will support single-item purchases only. Further developments will incorporate multi-item cart functionality, along with plans to expand the number of sellers on the platform. The roll-out of the feature will begin in the United States, followed by expansion to other geographical locations.
To make a purchase, users will be prompted to input shipping details and payment information. Merchants will be responsible for managing all aspects of the transaction, including order processing and payment. ChatGPT will simply act as a gateway for this information, connecting buyers and sellers. The service is free for users, but OpenAI will charge a small fee to merchants. The ACP is designed to be an open standard for AI commerce, allowing AI agents, individuals, and businesses to coordinate purchases seamlessly. OpenAI is positioning the new feature as both powerful and secure. The feature is anticipated to launch initially in the US market, with subsequent expansion to additional regions.