OpenAI’s Nick Turley explains vision to turn ChatGPT into a full-fledged operating system

ChatGPT

Nick Turley, who joined OpenAI in 2022 to lead ChatGPT, is now pushing the platform toward becoming a new type of operating system. With 800 million weekly active users, ChatGPT has grown substantially, and Turley envisions it evolving into a central hub for apps, e-commerce, and interactive experiences, according to a report by TechCrunch.

During a discussion at OpenAI’s third annual developer conference in San Francisco, Turley explained that ChatGPT’s model is inspired by web browsers, which have effectively become operating systems by hosting a variety of applications over the past decade. The goal is for ChatGPT to function similarly, providing users with a platform where software interactions occur seamlessly within a single ecosystem.

OpenAI is reportedly exploring a web browser and working with designers including Jony Ive on hardware devices, highlighting its ambition to integrate ChatGPT deeply into consumer experiences. Previously, OpenAI experimented with ChatGPT plugins and the GPT Store, efforts aimed at creating an AI app store. While initial adoption was limited, the company is now pursuing a more refined approach.

The operating system model allows third-party apps from companies such as Expedia, DoorDash, and Uber to operate directly within ChatGPT, generating transactions and enabling revenue capture for both OpenAI and app developers. The integration provides developers access to a user base of 800 million, positioning apps as a core part of the ChatGPT experience rather than an auxiliary feature.

Turley also addressed potential challenges, including how app prioritisation might be managed. OpenAI is considering allowing some apps to pay for prominence, but the company aims to maintain a smooth user experience. Data privacy is another concern. OpenAI guidelines specify that developers must collect only the minimum data necessary, and Turley suggested new features, such as partitioned memory, could provide users with fine-grained control over data access.

Turley frames ChatGPT as the delivery mechanism for OpenAI’s non-profit mission to develop artificial general intelligence responsibly. He emphasised that ChatGPT allows widespread distribution of AGI in a controlled and beneficial way, balancing consumer engagement with long-term research goals.