Introduction
OpenAI and Instacart are redefining online convenience by launching a seamless grocery shopping experience. Users can now complete Instacart ChatGPT integration transactions without ever leaving the chat interface. This feature allows customers to brainstorm meal ideas, build a comprehensive grocery list, and check out directly within the AI platform.
A Deepening Partnership
This development builds upon a collaboration that began over two years ago when Instacart introduced an in-app AI search tool powered by ChatGPT to assist shoppers with dinner ideas and dietary restrictions. The relationship has deepened significantly, especially after former Instacart CEO Fidji Simo—already an OpenAI board member—joined OpenAI as the CEO of Applications in May.
The Rise of Agentic Commerce
"Agentic commerce"—using AI tools to research and execute purchases on a user's behalf—is a top priority for OpenAI. The company's recent developer day focused on embedding apps into ChatGPT. Early previews and announcements have confirmed integrations with major platforms such as:
- Booking.com
- Canva
- Coursera
- Expedia
- Figma
- Spotify
- Target
- Intuit
With the holiday season approaching, Adobe predicts that AI-assisted online shopping will surge by 520%. Competitors like Perplexity are also launching in-app features to help users make purchasing decisions based on specific criteria.
The Profitability Challenge
Despite ChatGPT's massive user base, OpenAI faces significant hurdles to profitability due to resource-intensive compute costs. Agentic commerce tools offer a potential revenue stream: OpenAI will take an undisclosed "small fee" for facilitating sales for merchants. While it would take a massive volume of transactions to offset the company's operational debts, this represents a strategic step toward monetization beyond user subscriptions.
FAQ
Can I buy groceries directly inside ChatGPT?
Yes, through the Instacart ChatGPT integration, users can plan meals, create lists, and checkout without leaving the chat interface.
What is agentic commerce?
Agentic commerce refers to AI agents performing shopping research and executing purchases on behalf of the user, a key focus for OpenAI.
Does OpenAI make money from Instacart transactions?
OpenAI takes an undisclosed "small fee" from merchants when it helps facilitate a sale, providing a new revenue stream.
Who is Fidji Simo in this context?
Fidji Simo is the former CEO of Instacart and an OpenAI board member who recently joined OpenAI as the CEO of Applications.