OpenAI is preparing to introduce a new feature, ChatGPT Connectors, designed to integrate with business tools like Slack and Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Drive. This capability will allow ChatGPT to pull information from connected accounts, providing responses based on stored documentation, spreadsheets, and conversations. By streamlining access to company data, OpenAI aims to improve how businesses utilize AI for their operations. The development follows a growing trend of AI-driven workplace solutions, with various companies seeking to automate and enhance information retrieval.
OpenAI has been expanding its enterprise offerings over recent months, with reports in February indicating that its enterprise business had reached 2 million paying users, doubling its subscriber count since September. The company has also engaged in collaborations with major firms such as Lowe’s, which launched an AI-powered virtual assistant for home improvement, and BNY, which integrated OpenAI’s technology into its in-house AI platform, Eliza. These developments highlight the broader adoption of AI across various industries.
What features will ChatGPT Connectors offer?
The upcoming feature will allow ChatGPT to access and analyze documents, presentations, and conversations stored in Google Drive and Slack. Businesses using ChatGPT Team will be the first to test the functionality through an initial beta phase. OpenAI plans to extend the service to additional platforms, including Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) SharePoint and Box, broadening its utility for enterprises.
How does this integration impact businesses?
With ChatGPT gaining the ability to retrieve and process specific files and messages, businesses may experience more efficient workflows and improved data accessibility. Employees can ask ChatGPT questions regarding stored information, reducing the need for manual searches. This development aligns with the increasing reliance on AI assistants in corporate environments to optimize productivity.
OpenAI’s enterprise growth has been supported by the widespread adoption of its consumer-facing AI tools. Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap previously noted the impact of organic user growth on the company’s business segment, stating:
“We get a lot of benefits and a tailwind from the organic consumer adoption where people already have familiarity with the product.”
Beyond OpenAI, AI-powered integrations have been increasingly adopted across industries. Klarna, for example, reported in 2024 that its internal AI assistant, Kiki, was used by 85% of employees and responded to thousands of inquiries daily. Businesses are recognizing the efficiency of AI-based automation for internal operations, customer service, and data organization.
As AI continues to be incorporated into workplace tools, companies must consider data security and privacy implications. Allowing AI to access business documents raises concerns about sensitive information management. While OpenAI has not disclosed detailed security measures for ChatGPT Connectors, businesses will need to evaluate how such integrations align with their data protection policies. With the expansion of AI-driven workplace solutions, firms will likely seek a balance between automation convenience and safeguarding confidential information.
