OpenAI tests a business directory and AI agents in ChatGPT

Profiles and agents inside the chat

Businesses in ChatGPT could compete with Google My Business, a free tool that companies use to manage how they appear in Google Search and Maps. OpenAI is placing business profiles inside its conversational AI interface.

Companies will be able to sign up for Business Hub and manage their profiles there. They can add business information and product catalogs with prices and availability. The service will also show how often a company is mentioned in ChatGPT conversations and how many times users visit its website.

Eligible US online retailers and internet service providers will be able to create AI agents for ChatGPT. These agents answer customer questions and help compare products. Companies will also be able to use them as advertising placements in ChatGPT. Shopify merchants will be able to connect their stores to the service directly.

OpenAI says users’ conversations with ChatGPT are not shared with companies. The company says 1.2 billion people use the chatbot each week. OpenAI plans to expand Businesses in ChatGPT to other markets and industries over time.

Dataist's take: OpenAI is combining a business directory, referral analytics, and customer service through AI agents in ChatGPT. For now, the feature is available only to some companies in the US, and further expansion is still only planned.