OpenaAI’s developer push is turning AI into a booking platform — and putting it on a collision course with Apple
Oct 9, 2025
OpenAI is betting big on developers to turn ChatGPT into a platform filled with app integrations — from booking hotels to buying tickets — but that strategy could soon run into Apple’s tightly controlled mobile ecosystem. The company’s push to embed real-world actions inside its chatbot sets up a quiet but significant rivalry with the iPhone maker.
Key takeaways
- Developer ecosystem strategy: OpenAI is inviting companies to build tightly focused integrations within ChatGPT, aiming to create a self-reinforcing platform that attracts both users and developers.
- Human oversight still required: Despite major progress, AI models still make factual and procedural mistakes — meaning real-world actions often need human supervision or correction.
- ChatGPT as a “super app”: With enough integrations, ChatGPT could evolve into a central interface for everyday digital tasks like travel, shopping, and communication.
- Apple’s gatekeeping challenge: On iPhones, Apple’s strict rules around in-app functionality and payments could block or limit these AI integrations, posing a serious platform constraint.
- Hardware ambitions emerge: OpenAI’s partnership with former Apple designer Jony Ive signals its intent to create a dedicated device — one capable of rivaling the iPhone by merging AI interaction with seamless functionality.
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