In a recent development, OpenAI has decided to delay the launch of its highly anticipated custom GPT store until early 2024, as revealed in an internal memo obtained by Reuters on Friday.
Originally unveiled during OpenAI’s inaugural developer conference in November, the custom GPTs and the associated store were initially slated for a later launch within the same month. However, the company has opted for an extension, citing the ongoing process of “making improvements” to the GPTs based on valuable customer feedback, as detailed in the internal memo.
This delay occurs amid the backdrop of significant organizational shifts at OpenAI, marked by the unexpected removal and subsequent reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman. The executive’s temporary ouster and subsequent return followed employee threats to resign, adding a layer of complexity to OpenAI’s operational landscape.
The GPTs, recognized as early iterations of AI assistants capable of executing real-world tasks such as booking flights on behalf of users, were expected to revolutionize user experiences. Additionally, the custom GPT store was designed to enable users to share their GPTs and potentially earn income based on the number of users.
While the delay may come as a disappointment to those eagerly awaiting the custom GPT store, OpenAI’s commitment to refining the technology based on user inputs reflects a dedication to delivering a high-quality product. The extended timeline allows the company to address concerns and enhance the capabilities of the GPTs, positioning them as robust tools for users in various applications.
As OpenAI navigates this delay, the broader context of leadership changes and internal dynamics adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The coming months will undoubtedly be pivotal for OpenAI as it strives to balance innovation, user expectations, and internal stability on the path to the eventual launch of the custom GPT store in early 2024.