Sam Altman has previously made it clear that he sees tech giant Apple AAPL as a bigger long-term rival than other AI chatbots. As a result, OpenAI has started rolling out an app-style system inside ChatGPT that lets users complete tasks without opening traditional iPhone apps, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The idea is that chatbots could eventually handle everyday tasks directly, which would challenge Apple’s tightly controlled app ecosystem if it gains traction.
So far, however, the experience is uneven. While some integrations, like Instacart CART, worked smoothly, many others felt limited or frustrating to use.
For instance, ChatGPT can estimate Uber UBER prices and arrival times, but it cannot book a ride. Instead, it sends users to a web page where they must re-enter information. Similar problems showed up with OpenTable and TripAdvisor TRIP, where simple tasks often led to errors or required very precise commands.
In many cases, the chatbot ended up adding extra steps instead of saving time. Nevertheless, Altman wants ChatGPT to evolve into something closer to an operating system and is working with former Apple designer Jony Ive on new AI-powered devices that he hopes could one day replace the iPhone.
I dont think that will happen anytime soon though...