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Conversational AI has changed the rules of user experience. With OpenAI Apps SDK, teams can now create embedded applications that live directly inside ChatGPT — offering users seamless, intelligent, and contextual support.
But building these apps isn't just about writing smart code. It's about designing meaningful, intuitive interactions. That’s why OpenAI published official design guidelines — and why UX GIRL is here to help you translate them into real results.
What Are ChatGPT Apps and the Apps SDK?
ChatGPT apps are mini-tools that users can access directly in the ChatGPT interface. They allow users to perform tasks, analyze data, create documents, fetch information from external sources, and more — all within the flow of conversation.
The Apps SDK lets developers define these app interactions using JavaScript while maintaining full compatibility with the ChatGPT interface. But to deliver real value, apps need to feel intuitive — and that’s where UX comes in.
The Core Design Principles from OpenAI
OpenAI’s UX guidelines are built on six core principles. Here’s what they mean in practice, with insights from the UX GIRL team:
Clarity is key
Your app’s interface must clearly communicate what it does, how it works, and what users can expect. Avoid vague labels or overloaded screens. Guide users with simple language and clean layout.
Respect the user’s intent
Let users take the lead. Your app should support user goals, not hijack the conversation. Avoid aggressive prompts or forced flows.
Make progress visible
Users need feedback. Loading indicators, success confirmations, and microinteractions help users trust the process — especially in a conversational UI.
Minimize user effort
Reduce friction wherever possible. Use smart defaults, context-aware suggestions, and auto-filled values to streamline user input.
Be consistent
ChatGPT has a defined look and tone — follow it. Use system UI components and maintain consistency in voice, spacing, and layout.
Fail gracefully
Errors are inevitable. Design them to be informative and friendly. Offer users clear explanations and next steps without making them feel lost.
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How Product Teams Can Apply These Guidelines
Following these principles doesn’t require a full UX overhaul — but it does require strategic thinking. Here are two practical ways your team can implement them:
1. UX-aligned development workflow:
- Define realistic user conversations and app responses early.
- Prototype conversations using mock UIs or prompt flows.
- Test early and often — even with basic, Wizard-of-Oz style setups.
- Build in real-time feedback elements (confirmation messages, visual states).
2. UX checklist for Product Owners:
- Does the user always know what they can do next?
- Are all actions and outcomes clearly explained?
- Is app progress or system state visible?
- Is tone and layout consistent with ChatGPT?
- Do error messages guide users constructively?
The Unique UX Challenges of Designing Inside a Chat Interface
Unlike traditional apps, ChatGPT apps don't rely on menus, tabs, or visual hierarchies. Users interact through text — with fluid, nonlinear intent. This makes context one of the biggest UX challenges.
Small design gaps (e.g., unclear responses or missing context) can lead to confusion. That’s why good conversational design includes scenario testing, intelligent defaults, and visible state changes — even without a traditional UI.
Final Takeaways
Designing inside ChatGPT isn’t just about building functionality — it’s about earning user trust through clarity, empathy, and consistency.
At UX GIRL, we recommend:
- Start with a small MVP to test a focused user goal.
- Use OpenAI’s design principles as a design audit tool.
- Involve UX early — especially for dialogue design and testing.
- Don’t rely on AI to do everything. Guide the user intentionally.
Building with Apps SDK? Let UX GIRL help you design AI-powered experiences that convert, engage, and delight.
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