OpenAI partners with Walmart to let users buy products in ChatGPT, furthering chatbot shopping push

Core Insights - OpenAI is partnering with Walmart to enable direct purchases within ChatGPT, aiming to enhance its chatbot's functionality as a virtual merchant and increase revenue [1][4] - Walmart's new feature will allow customers to "simply chat and buy," facilitating instant checkout for various products through ChatGPT [2][3] - This partnership represents a significant expansion for OpenAI in the eCommerce sector, competing with major players like Amazon and Google for digital shopping fees [4] OpenAI's Strategy - The collaboration with Walmart is part of OpenAI's broader strategy to integrate its technology into online commerce, having previously launched similar initiatives with Shopify and Etsy [4][5] - OpenAI has not yet turned a profit and relies on investor funding to support its AI development and operational costs [4] Walmart's AI Integration - Walmart has been enhancing its AI capabilities across its operations, including the introduction of its AI shopping assistant, Sparky [6] - The partnership will also extend to Sam's Club members, showcasing Walmart's commitment to AI literacy among its employees [6][7] - Walmart's stock saw an increase of nearly 5% following the announcement of this partnership [7]