ChatGPT to Carry Advertisements for Some Users
Adverts are set to make their debut on ChatGPT for selected users, as OpenAI recently announced. This trial will commence in the United States and will impact both free users and those subscribing to a new tier called ChatGPT Go.
Key Details about ChatGPT’s Advertisements
– Subscription Model: The ChatGPT Go tier will be available globally for just $8 per month, or the equivalent in local currencies.
– Ad Placement: During this trial, ads will appear at the top of ChatGPT after user prompts. For instance, asking for travel recommendations in Mexico could trigger relevant holiday ads.
– Ad Format: Screenshots revealed by OpenAI show these ads resembling banner advertisements.
– Data Privacy: OpenAI assures users that these advertisements will not affect response quality and that user conversation data will not be shared with advertisers.
Why Is OpenAI Introducing Ads?
OpenAI’s decision to explore advertising stems from its goal to enable more users to access their tools with fewer restrictions. However, growing concerns exist regarding the sustainability of the AI sector’s valuation amid a lack of proven profitability.
Henry Ajder, an expert in AI and synthetic media, noted that OpenAI is experiencing significant growth in user numbers but continues to use investor funds without turning a profit. He emphasized that for OpenAI to transition into a profitable entity, it needs to diversify its revenue streams beyond just subscriptions. Advertising represents a reliable income source for many software companies.
Financial Context
– Reported Losses: According to the Financial Times, OpenAI reported a loss of approximately $8 billion in the first half of 2025. Alarmingly, only 5% of its 800 million users have opted for paid subscriptions.
– Existing Tiers: Besides ChatGPT Go, OpenAI also offers Plus and Pro tiers, priced at $20 and $200 per month, respectively, in the U.S.
– Origins and Transition: Initially founded as a non-profit, OpenAI has increasingly shifted toward a commercial model, embracing advertising as a potential revenue stream.
Industry Trends
OpenAI is not alone in considering advertising as a monetization strategy. Notably, the broader internet economy has relied on advertising as a significant funding source for over two decades.
– Competing AI Firms: Other companies in the AI sector are exploring similar paths, despite OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman’s past aversion to ads. For instance, AI firm Perplexity created a head of advertising and shopping role in 2025, though this position was short-lived.
As the trial unfolds, the integration of advertisements into ChatGPT will be closely monitored, offering insights into how this strategy affects user experience and the platform’s overall functionality.
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