OpenAI and Instacart Launch AI Grocery Shopping Inside ChatGPT

OpenAI has integrated grocery shopping directly into ChatGPT. This new feature lets users plan meals and buy food without leaving the chat. The partnership with Instacart makes this possible.

It marks a major push into “agentic commerce” for OpenAI. The goal is to let AI handle product research and purchases. TechCrunch first reported on this development.

How ChatGPT Grocery Shopping Works for Users

Shoppers can now ask ChatGPT for meal ideas based on dietary needs. The AI will then help build a complete grocery list. Finally, users can check out through Instacart seamlessly.

This builds on an existing collaboration between the two companies. Instacart already uses ChatGPT to power an in-app search tool. That tool helps answer cooking and dietary questions for shoppers.

The partnership deepened recently. Former Instacart CEO Fidji Simo joined OpenAI in a leadership role this past May. She was already serving on OpenAI’s board prior to the move.

OpenAI’s Big Bet on AI-Driven Shopping

Making ChatGPT a shopping assistant is a clear priority. The company’s recent developer event highlighted plans to build apps into the chat interface. Early integrations included partners like Expedia, Spotify, and Zillow.

Since then, OpenAI has announced similar deals with major retailers. Target and Intuit are among the new partners. The company is positioning ChatGPT as a central hub for tasks.

Industry forecasts suggest rapid growth for AI-assisted shopping. Adobe predicts a 520% surge this holiday season alone. Other AI firms, like Perplexity, are launching similar commerce features.

This strategy could open a new revenue stream for OpenAI. The company reportedly takes a “small fee” for sales it facilitates. This is crucial as OpenAI is not yet profitable due to high operational costs.

This move by OpenAI fundamentally changes how we interact with everyday tasks like grocery shopping. The new ChatGPT grocery shopping feature blends AI conversation with instant commerce, signaling a future where digital assistants handle more of our daily errands.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How do I use the new grocery feature in ChatGPT?

Users simply start a conversation with ChatGPT about meal planning. The AI will suggest recipes and generate a grocery list. You can then review and purchase the items through Instacart within the same chat.

Is there an extra cost for using ChatGPT to shop?

OpenAI has not announced a specific user fee for the service. However, the company will receive a small fee from merchants for sales generated. Standard Instacart delivery and service fees will still apply to orders.

What other stores or retailers will be added?

Currently, the integration is specifically with Instacart. OpenAI has partnerships with other major retailers like Target. Future expansions to include more stores directly within ChatGPT are likely.

Why is OpenAI focusing on shopping features?

Developing “agentic commerce” tools is a strategic priority. It provides a potential new revenue source through partnership fees. This helps the company work toward profitability.

Can I use this feature right now?

The feature is in the process of launching. Access may be rolling out gradually to users. Check your ChatGPT interface for updates on availability.