ChatGPT users will soon be able to make purchases directly within the chatbot, thanks to a new instant checkout feature. This capability is being developed with the help of Stripe and is built on the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP). Users will be able to buy products directly from sellers through their chat interface. The initial launch will allow single-item purchases, with plans to expand to multi-item carts in the future. OpenAI intends to add more direct sellers to the platform. The company plans to roll out the feature regionally after its initial launch.
When a user seeks information about a product that supports the instant checkout function, a simple tap will initiate the buying process. Users will be able to complete the purchase by entering their shipping and payment information. Merchants will manage all aspects of the order, payment, and delivery process using their existing systems. ChatGPT functions as a conduit between the buyer and seller. While users will have free access, OpenAI will charge merchants a small fee. The ACP is designed as an open standard for AI commerce, which will facilitate interactions between AI agents, users, and businesses to facilitate purchases. The feature is designed to be powerful and secure, with the initial launch in the US market, followed by expansion to other areas.