ChatGPT can now buy things for you: OpenAI has just launched a missile at Amazon's waterline

OpenAI's latest update introduces "Instant Checkout" functionality, enabling direct purchases via the ChatGPT chatbot, a move that directly challenges existing e-commerce models. This innovation allows users to buy goods without navigating traditional online storefronts, potentially reshaping how consumers interact with online retailers. This development is especially significant for European consumers as it offers a glimpse into a future where AI-powered shopping experiences become commonplace, potentially altering online market dynamics. The new feature currently supports purchases from Etsy stores in the United States, with expansion planned for platforms like Shopify, which boasts over a million sellers. Available to both free and paid ChatGPT users, the system streamlines the buying process by removing the need to visit external websites. The company has plans to introduce the system in more territories and support additional e-commerce platforms in the near future. This shift could affect European businesses and consumers in several ways. Smaller retailers, in particular, could face new competition from AI-driven shopping interfaces that prioritize user convenience. European businesses that prioritize digital sovereignty may view this development with caution, seeking to understand how their data is handled by these AI-driven platforms. The focus on data privacy and GDPR compliance will be crucial to ensure consumer trust and protect sensitive information. As OpenAI expands Instant Checkout across the globe, European regulators and businesses will need to closely monitor its implementation. This includes understanding its integration with existing payment systems and ensuring compliance with the bloc's strict data protection laws. This move marks another step towards an AI-driven shopping future, raising important questions about the role of digital sovereignty in the digital marketplace.