OpenAI is making it easier for ChatGPT users to connect with third-party apps within the chatbot to carry out tasks, the company's latest bid to turn its flagship product into a key gateway for digital services.

With the new option, unveiled Monday during OpenAI's annual developers event, a ChatGPT user can ask to create a playlist for the weekend and the app will connect with Spotify to make suggestions. Alternatively, a user can look up a three-bedroom home in a specific neighborhood on Zillow, without leaving the ChatGPT app. Other apps, including Figma, Expedia and Booking.com, are also available. The feature, which OpenAI calls "talking ...