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ChatGPT Hits $3 Billion in Mobile Spend as OpenAI Opens In‑Chat App Store

The new directory plus a beta Apps SDK signal a push to host third‑party services directly inside conversations.

Overview

  • Appfigures estimates ChatGPT’s mobile app has generated a cumulative $3 billion in consumer spending since launch, with the figure based on third‑party tracking rather than an OpenAI disclosure.
  • In 2025 alone, consumers spent an estimated $2.48 billion, up 408% from $487 million in 2024 after $42.9 million in 2023.
  • It took ChatGPT about 31 months to reach $3 billion in spend, outpacing TikTok’s 58 months and streaming services like Disney+ at 42 months and HBO Max at 46 months, according to Appfigures.
  • OpenAI introduced an in‑chat App Directory and a beta Apps SDK, letting developers submit and track apps that users can access via the Apps button or chatgpt.com/apps and invoke in chats (for example, with @appname), with categories such as Featured, Lifestyle and Productivity.
  • Early integrations include Expedia, Spotify, Zillow and Canva, developers can link to external sites to fulfill physical‑goods purchases, and an independent analysis projects a potential $44.26 billion shift from Apple and Google’s stores if spending migrates, a scenario described as a projection rather than a certainty.