OpenAI launches ChatGPT Wallet so AI agents can shop and check out for users

OpenAI on November 13 launched ChatGPT Wallet, a payment feature that lets its AI agents, called dots, buy things for users.

At first, it is open to a limited number of U.S. ChatGPT Pro subscribers aged 18 and up.
Users also need a U.S.-issued Visa, Mastercard or American Express card.

OpenAI built the feature in partnership with American Express, Mastercard and Visa, according to CNBC.

How a purchase works

Users add an eligible card to the wallet once, then ask their dot to help find and buy an item.

Before checkout, users review the items, the total and the card being used, OpenAI says.
They then approve the purchase with a security check such as Face ID or a fingerprint.

The dot never sees the real card details, according to the company.

Instead, the payment networks supply a payment token: a substitute card number, security code and expiry date specific to one transaction.

Merchants receive what they need to fill the order, such as a shipping address and contact details.

OpenAI says card rewards and protections, like disputing a charge, still apply.

Why the rollout is limited

OpenAI says the small launch lets it test and improve the feature before a wider release.

The company also says it is not taking a cut of transactions to start.

Luke Gebb, executive vice president and global head of innovation at Amex, told CNBC the limited rollout is intentional.

CNBC reports that OpenAI quickly pivoted away from an earlier shopping feature called Instant Checkout.

What comes next

OpenAI plans to let users set spending limits and rules by purchase category or time period, so agents can handle pre-approved purchases more on their own.

It also wants the feature to work at more retailers, though some block AI agents.
Amazon prevents agents from buying on its platform, and United Airlines said it will block agents from booking tickets.

OpenAI published a Commerce Partner Playbook with tools and guidance for merchants, including how to avoid accidentally blocking its agents.

Quick questions

Who can use ChatGPT Wallet?

At launch, a limited number of U.S. ChatGPT Pro subscribers aged 18 and up with a U.S.-issued Visa, Mastercard or American Express card.

Does the ChatGPT agent see my credit card number?

No, according to OpenAI. The payment networks provide a payment token specific to each transaction, so card details are not shared with the agent or the merchant.

Do I have to approve every ChatGPT Wallet purchase?

Yes, users review the items, total and card, then approve with a security check like Face ID or a fingerprint. OpenAI plans pre-approval options such as spending limits later.