OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Wallet, a new feature that allows its Dots AI agents to make purchases on behalf of users. The feature was developed with American Express, Mastercard, and Visa. However, its initial rollout is limited to ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the US.
ChatGPT Wallet allows users to add a payment card once and use it for future purchases. They can then ask their AI agent to find products or services, such as clothing or hotel bookings. The agent handles the shopping process and presents the final order for approval.
Before completing a purchase, users can review the merchant, selected items, total cost, and payment card. They must then approve the transaction through biometric authentication. This includes Face ID or a fingerprint scan. Each approval also creates a record of the purchase authorized by the user.
OpenAI says the system does not share actual card details with AI agents or merchants. Instead, the payment network generates a separate payment token after the user approves a transaction. This token includes its own card number, security code, and expiration date. The merchant then charges the token against the user’s actual card.
Users will also retain their existing card rewards and eligible purchase protections. These protections can cover disputes involving defective products, for example.
OpenAI plans to expand the feature with more automated purchasing options. Users could eventually set spending limits, restrict purchases to certain categories, or choose specific time periods. They could then approve these conditions in advance, allowing their agents to complete purchases without individual confirmation.
However, that level of automation is not available yet. The system also depends on websites allowing AI agents to complete transactions. Some websites currently block automated agents, which can prevent legitimate purchases.
To address this issue, OpenAI is releasing a Commerce Partner Playbook for businesses. The guide explains how merchants can make their websites and payment systems compatible with AI-driven purchases. It aims to prevent legitimate transactions from being rejected.
ChatGPT Wallet is rolling out today through Dots for eligible ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the US. Users must be at least 18 years old and have an eligible US-issued American Express, Chase, Mastercard, or Visa card.
The launch follows OpenAI’s introduction of ChatGPT Finance, which allows users to connect their bank accounts to the chatbot. It also builds on ChatGPT Agent, launched more than a year ago, which gave the chatbot the ability to complete tasks on users’ behalf.
