OpenAI is actively developing a new authentication feature that would allow users to log into third-party applications using their ChatGPT credentials. This initiative aims to streamline user access across various platforms by leveraging ChatGPT’s extensive user base, which has grown to approximately 600 million monthly active users.
The company has initiated a developer interest form to gauge the demand for this feature among app developers. This form seeks information about the size of the app’s user base, ranging from small applications with fewer than 1,000 weekly users to large-scale platforms with over 100 million weekly users. Additionally, it inquires about the developers’ current methods of charging for AI features and their existing relationship with OpenAI’s API services.
In early May 2025, OpenAI introduced a preview of the Sign in with ChatGPT feature within Codex CLI, its open-source AI coding tool for terminals. This preview allowed developers to link their ChatGPT accounts—whether Free, Plus, or Pro—to their API accounts. To encourage adoption, OpenAI offered Plus users $5 in API credits and Pro users $50 upon signing in with ChatGPT.
The concept of a unified sign-in mechanism is not new and has been successfully implemented by tech giants like Google, Apple, and Microsoft. These companies offer single sign-on (SSO) solutions that enable users to access multiple services with a single set of credentials, enhancing user convenience and security. By introducing a similar feature, OpenAI aims to position ChatGPT as a central hub for user authentication across a diverse range of applications, potentially spanning online shopping, social media, and personal devices.
However, integrating such a feature comes with its set of challenges, particularly concerning security. The OAuth protocol, commonly used for secure delegated access, has been associated with vulnerabilities in various implementations. For instance, research has highlighted potential risks in third-party ChatGPT plugins that could lead to unauthorized access and data breaches. These vulnerabilities underscore the importance of robust security measures in the development of authentication features.
OpenAI has previously addressed security concerns related to third-party integrations. In March 2024, the company faced challenges with third-party ChatGPT extensions that posed risks of account takeovers and data exfiltration. These incidents highlighted the need for stringent security protocols when extending ChatGPT’s functionalities to external applications.
The proposed Sign in with ChatGPT feature could offer several benefits:
– Enhanced User Experience: Users would benefit from a seamless login process across multiple platforms, reducing the need to remember multiple credentials.
– Increased Security: Centralized authentication can potentially reduce the attack surface for malicious actors, provided that robust security measures are in place.
– Developer Convenience: Developers could simplify their authentication processes by integrating a widely used and trusted authentication method, potentially increasing user trust and engagement.
Despite these advantages, the success of this feature will heavily depend on OpenAI’s ability to implement it securely. The company must address potential vulnerabilities associated with OAuth implementations and ensure that user data remains protected. Additionally, OpenAI will need to establish clear guidelines and support for developers to facilitate the integration of this feature into their applications.
As of now, OpenAI has not provided a specific timeline for the public release of the Sign in with ChatGPT feature. The company is in the exploratory phase, gathering feedback from developers and assessing the feasibility of widespread implementation. The tech community is keenly observing these developments, recognizing the potential impact on user authentication practices and the broader application ecosystem.
In conclusion, OpenAI’s initiative to introduce a Sign in with ChatGPT feature represents a significant step toward integrating AI-driven authentication into mainstream applications. While the potential benefits are substantial, the company must navigate the associated security challenges carefully. By leveraging its extensive user base and focusing on robust security protocols, OpenAI has the opportunity to set a new standard in user authentication, enhancing both user experience and security across the digital landscape.
