OpenAI launches ChatGPT Wallet to let AI agents make purchases for users

OpenAI launched a new feature called ChatGPT Wallet on Friday, allowing its artificial intelligence agents to help users select and purchase products. The feature enables agents, called dots, to complete transactions directly on behalf of users.

The initial rollout is limited to select ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the United States who are aged 18 and older. Eligible users must hold a U.S.-issued credit card from Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, according to OpenAI.

To complete a purchase, users add an eligible payment card to ChatGPT Wallet during a one-time setup process. OpenAI stated that the wallet processes payments using a payment token rather than sharing actual card details with the agent or merchant.

OpenAI said users retain full control over transactions by reviewing items, total costs, and payment cards prior to checkout. Purchases require direct approval through a security check, such as Face ID or fingerprint authentication, which creates a transaction record.

Merchants automatically receive necessary fulfillment details from the agent, including shipping addresses and contact information, according to OpenAI. Customers retain credit card rewards and standard cardholder protections, including transaction dispute rights.

OpenAI published a Commerce Partner Playbook to guide retailers adapting to agentic commerce. The company plans to introduce spending limits, purchase-category controls, and time-period parameters in future updates to allow broader pre-approved purchases.

What do these terms mean?

Payment token: A secure digital identifier that substitutes for actual credit card details during a transaction to prevent sensitive financial data from being shared with merchants or software agents.

Agentic commerce: A form of electronic commerce where autonomous artificial intelligence agents conduct research, select products, and execute financial transactions on behalf of human users.