Why the OpenAI GPT Store Isn’t Booming Like the Apple App Store: A Developer’s Perspective
When Apple launched the App Store in 2008, it was a game-changer. Developers and users alike flocked to it, and within a year, it was clear that this new ecosystem was here to stay. Fast forward to the launch of the OpenAI GPT Store, and the story is quite different. Despite the initial excitement, it hasn't experienced the same explosive growth. As a developer deeply involved in both ecosystems, I’ve reflected on why the GPT Store isn’t booming like the App Store did. Here are some key challenges from my perspective.
Lack of a Clear Monetization Strategy
One of the most critical aspects of the App Store’s success was its clear and developer-friendly monetization strategy. Apple introduced the 30%/70% revenue split, which, despite some criticism, provided a straightforward way for developers to earn money from their apps. This incentivized a flood of developers to create innovative applications, knowing there was a direct path to revenue.
In contrast, the OpenAI GPT Store lacks a clear monetization strategy. There isn’t a well-defined revenue model that appeals to developers. Without a solid way to make money, developers are hesitant to invest time and resources into creating GPT-based applications. The absence of clear financial incentives is a significant barrier to the store’s growth.
Insufficient Tools for Managing and Tracking Users and Usage
Another factor contributing to the App Store’s success was the robust set of tools Apple provided for managing and tracking user engagement and app usage. Developers had access to detailed analytics, which allowed them to understand how their apps were being used and to optimize them accordingly. This feedback loop was essential for continuous improvement and user satisfaction.
The GPT Store, however, falls short in this area. The tools available for managing and tracking user interactions with GPT models are limited. Developers lack the insights needed to refine their applications and enhance user experience. This gap makes it difficult to build and maintain successful GPT-based apps.
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One of the strengths of the iOS ecosystem is its seamless integration with external apps and services. Apple provides a comprehensive set of APIs that allow developers to create rich, interconnected experiences. This capability has been a cornerstone of the App Store’s thriving ecosystem.
The GPT Store, unfortunately, has a broken interface when it comes to integrating with external apps and services. Developers face significant challenges in creating applications that can interact smoothly with other software. This lack of integration hinders the creation of sophisticated, useful GPT-based applications that can leverage existing tools and platforms.
Lack of Support for GPT Builder, Poor Documentation, and Community Support
Another significant gap is the lack of support for the GPT Builder. Apple invested heavily in app creation, providing excellent documentation, comprehensive developer tools, and a supportive community forum. These resources empowered developers to bring their app ideas to life and maintain high standards of quality and functionality.
In contrast, the OpenAI GPT Store suffers from poor documentation and insufficient support in the OpenAI forum. Developers often struggle to find the information they need, slowing down the development process and discouraging innovation. The lack of robust resources and community support is a critical weakness that needs to be addressed.
The Next 6-12 Months: A Crucial Period
In my perspective, the next 6-12 months will be crucial in determining whether the OpenAI GPT Store will improve or face a stagnant future. Two potential game-changers could significantly alter the current trajectory. First, the introduction of Gemini Gems and Extensions could provide new opportunities and incentives for developers. Second, a deep partnership between Apple and OpenAI could bring much-needed integration and support, leveraging Apple's vast experience and ecosystem strengths.
Conclusion
For the GPT Store to realize its potential, OpenAI must learn from the successes of the App Store and implement changes that will make the platform more developer-friendly. Until these issues are resolved, the GPT Store will struggle to achieve the same level of success and adoption that the App Store enjoyed. As developers, we need a robust ecosystem that supports our efforts to create innovative and valuable applications, and it’s up to OpenAI to provide that foundation. The coming months will be telling, and I remain cautiously optimistic that we will see positive changes.
Cofounder at Top Road | Y Combinator | INSEAD
2 个月Great perspective Yaniv Shani! We're building GPT Builder Tools to address the monetisation & analytics problems you pointed out (would love it if you tried it out & gave your feedback https://gptbuilder.tools/) and agree the next 6-12 months is critical. There's only so much we can do as a third party, OpenAI really needs to come to the table.
Business Development Executive
2 个月My understanding is that OpenAI's main focus is on customer reach and less on revenue. Therefore assisting the ecosystem and building a successful store is lower on the priority list. This is unfortunate, since the store can broaden the reach drastically. I believe that as the company grows this will become a focus area.