OpenAI Delays GPT Store Launch to 2024 After CEO Drama

OpenAI Postpones Launch of Personalized Chatbot Marketplace

OpenAI, the artificial intelligence startup behind ChatGPT, is delaying the launch of its GPT Store. This online marketplace was supposed to let users create and purchase customized chatbots powered by GPT technology. However, OpenAI is now postponing the GPT Store debut from late 2023 to early 2024.

OpenAI communicated this launch delay via an email sent on December 1st. The email cited "unexpected things" that have been occupying the company's time lately. The turmoil stems from the brief removal and subsequent reinstatement of OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman in November.

Brief Ousting of CEO Sam Altman Caused Disarray

On November 17th, OpenAI's board abruptly removed Altman from the CEO position. They claimed Altman had not been transparent with the board, impeding their governance duties. However, this controversial decision triggered OpenAI employees to threaten mass resignation if Altman was not reinstated.

Just five days after Altman's removal, he was back as CEO on November 23rd. The board also underwent restructuring. But this executive shakeup caused enough internal confusion to disrupt OpenAI's launch timeline.

What the GPT Store Would Have Offered

Back in November, OpenAI unveiled plans to allow users to create personalized GPT chatbots without coding knowledge. This would have opened the floodgates for customized chatbots tailored to specific topics and conversation styles.

The GPT Store was slated to launch in December as a marketplace for buying and selling these AI chatbots. Users could have earned money selling their own bot creations. But the rollout is now postponed to 2024 due to the company's recent turmoil.

This delay shows the massive impact of OpenAI's internal shakeup. The company races against competitors in the red-hot AI space. Products like the GPT Store are key to OpenAI's future. But the company must now refocus efforts after its brief leadership crisis.