ChatGPT Introduces Support for MCPs

OpenAI has introduced a new Developer mode in ChatGPT, now in beta, marking a significant step forward in integrating AI with real-world workflows. This update grants full support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard that is rapidly becoming the industry benchmark for connecting AI models to external tools and data sources. With Developer mode enabled, users can now access both read and write capabilities through MCP-compatible tools, expanding beyond simple information retrieval to full automation. MCP allows AI models to interact with remote servers over the internet, unlocking access to live data, third-party services, and custom applications. This means developers can build and deploy connectors that let ChatGPT perform actions such as updating Jira tickets, triggering workflows in Zapier, posting to Slack, managing CRM entries, or interacting with databases. These write actions were previously limited or unavailable in most AI tools, making this a major advancement in AI-driven automation. The feature is designed for developers and power users who want to extend ChatGPT’s functionality beyond conversation. By enabling Developer mode—accessible via Settings → Connectors → Advanced → Developer mode—users gain the ability to create, test, and deploy custom MCP connectors. These can be shared, reused, or combined to build complex, multi-step automations. For example, a developer could design a workflow where ChatGPT analyzes a user request, fetches data from a company’s internal system, updates a project management tool, and sends a notification—all in a single interaction. The move reflects OpenAI’s growing focus on making ChatGPT not just a conversational assistant but a programmable agent capable of interacting with the digital world. As MCP gains traction, it could become a foundational layer for AI integration across platforms, similar to how APIs have powered web applications for decades. The open nature of the protocol encourages interoperability, allowing developers to build tools that work across different AI models and services. This update comes amid increasing demand for AI tools that can do more than generate text—they need to act. Businesses, developers, and technical teams are looking for ways to automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual work, and integrate AI into existing systems. With Developer mode, ChatGPT becomes a more powerful agent within software ecosystems, capable of executing commands and modifying data in real time. While still in beta, the feature signals OpenAI’s commitment to building a more open and extensible AI platform. It also positions ChatGPT as a central hub for AI-powered automation, especially as more companies adopt AI agents to streamline operations. The ability to write data back into systems—rather than just reading or summarizing—opens up new possibilities for AI in customer support, IT operations, content management, and more. As MCP adoption grows, developers will play a key role in shaping how AI interacts with the digital world. OpenAI’s support for the protocol, combined with the new Developer mode, could accelerate the development of a rich ecosystem of AI tools and integrations. This may also influence how other AI companies approach tooling and interoperability, potentially leading to a more unified standard across the industry. In short, OpenAI’s Developer mode is not just a new setting—it’s a strategic shift toward making AI a true collaborator in digital workflows. With full MCP support, ChatGPT is evolving from a chatbot into a versatile, action-oriented AI agent capable of driving real-world change.