In November, OpenAI, a Microsoft-backed AI startup, hosted its inaugural Devday developer conference. During the event, the company unveiled the GPT-4 model’s capability to develop personalized chatbots and disclosed intentions to introduce a GPT store. This marketplace would allow users of OpenAI’s GPT builders to sell and exchange the GPTs they’ve constructed. Recently, the company confirmed a delay in launching the GPT store, now set for early 2024.
In an email that OpenAI has sent to people who signed up for its GPT Builder, (seen by the Verge) the company announced the availability of the GPT store will be delayed “until next year
Why OpenAI has delayed the GPT Store
OpenAI mentioned in the email that “unexpected things” keeping the company “busy” have led to a delay in rolling out the GPT store. Originally scheduled for release in December, the company had initially announced the store’s launch at its developer conference in November, stating it would occur later that month. However, the launch did not happen as planned and has faced additional delays.
The creator of ChatGPT highlighted ongoing efforts to “enhance” GPTs based on user feedback. OpenAI also indicated that, as work on the store continues, users can anticipate updates to the popular ChatGPT chatbot. The development team further announced enhancements to certain features of the custom GPT platform.
GPTs represent preliminary AI assistant models capable of executing practical tasks, such as booking flights for users. In the November event, OpenAI additionally disclosed plans to compensate individuals who have developed their own GPTs, with the payout amount contingent on the extent of usage of their creation.
In recent weeks, the company experienced a tumultuous period. The CEO, Sam Altman, was dismissed by the board last month. Following nearly five days of turmoil, Altman was reinstated as the CEO of OpenAI.
