OpenAI launches ChatGPT apps and SDK with Coursera as first learning partner: ETIH EdTech News – EdTech Innovation Hub
Photo credit: OpenAI
OpenAI has launched a new generation of in-chat apps within ChatGPT and released a preview of its Apps SDK, allowing developers to build interactive experiences directly inside the platform.
The SDK, built on the Model Context Protocol (MCP), gives developers tools to design both logic and interface while connecting apps to their own systems.
Apps can be accessed through natural language requests or surfaced automatically when relevant to a conversation. OpenAI said the experience blends conversational interaction with familiar digital elements such as maps, playlists, and course modules.
Apps are rolling out to logged-in ChatGPT users outside the EU across all plans, with early partners including Booking.com, Canva, Coursera, Figma, Expedia, Spotify, and Zillow. OpenAI plans to accept developer submissions later this year and introduce a directory to help users discover approved apps.
The company says developers can begin testing in Developer Mode and that the Apps SDK preview is designed to make building conversational tools faster and more accessible. Each app must comply with OpenAI’s usage policies, include clear privacy statements, and collect only essential data.
Following the announcement, OpenAI’s VP of Education Leah Belsky took to social media to highlight Coursera’s inclusion as a first learning partner. “Today we’re launching Apps in ChatGPT, with Coursera as a first learning partner,” she wrote. “Some of the best learning happens when human expertise and AI work together. Now you can ask, ‘Coursera, teach me data analytics?’ and instantly see a relevant video from a world class teacher, course info, and a link to dive deeper.”
Belsky called the launch “an important step toward our broader goal: making ChatGPT a tool that helps learners everywhere unlock their potential.”
Coursera, the online education platform offering university and industry-backed courses, is one of OpenAI’s initial app partners. Its app lets users access educational videos, course information, and links directly within ChatGPT, with the assistant able to recommend Coursera content when a conversation involves learning new skills.
CEO Greg Hart wrote on social media, “I’m excited to share that Coursera is joining OpenAI’s new generation of apps in ChatGPT. Now, trusted, world-class learning from Coursera is accessible directly within ChatGPT—putting high-quality courses from top universities and industry leaders right into the flow of questions and practice for hundreds of millions of people worldwide.”
Coursera said users can start a message with “Coursera” or allow ChatGPT to suggest the app when relevant. The integration aims to make discovery easier while linking curiosity directly to actionable learning paths.
Belsky said that over the past year, many educators and startups have struggled to distribute AI learning tools. “Learning is a top use case in ChatGPT,” she added. “Now we can bring these new experiences to the 800 million people using ChatGPT every week.”
OpenAI plans to expand the app ecosystem later this year with business, enterprise, and education rollouts. Developers will also be able to monetize their apps and take advantage of the new Agentic Commerce Protocol for in-chat purchases.
Greg Hart concluded, “We’re proud to be OpenAI’s first learning app in ChatGPT—and grateful to work alongside leaders like Leah Belsky and the team at ChatGPT for Education. We’re just getting started.”
The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.
Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.
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