ChatGPT to Show Ads Amid Rising Costs, but Some Users Will Get Exemptions

OpenAI, the US-based AI giant, has announced that it is starting trials to display advertisements on its widely used chatbot, ChatGPT. This move comes as the company faces rising infrastructure costs and increasing pressure to generate revenue. Initially, the trial will be limited to users in the United States, with the potential for global rollout depending on feedback.

How ChatGPT Ads Will Appear

Unlike traditional ads that interrupt content, ChatGPT advertisements will appear above or below the response, never within the answer itself. OpenAI has stated that ads will only show when they are relevant to the ongoing conversation. For example, if a user is discussing travel plans, a related sponsored service may appear.

This approach ensures that ads remain contextually meaningful, avoiding unnecessary disruption to the user experience.

Exemptions for Sensitive Topics and Younger Users

To protect privacy and avoid misuse, OpenAI has made it clear that users under 18 years of age will not see any advertisements. Ads will also be excluded in discussions related to health, mental health, and politics, ensuring that sensitive topics remain ad-free.

Additionally, users will be able to see why a particular ad was shown to them. This transparency measure is designed to build trust and allow users to understand ad relevance.

Trial Available in Free and ChatGPT Go Plans

According to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, the ad trial will be implemented in ChatGPT’s free tier and the newly introduced ChatGPT Go plan, which is priced at $8 per month. Altman emphasized that ad revenue will not influence ChatGPT’s responses, and user conversations will never be shared with advertisers.

For many users who do not subscribe to paid plans, advertisements could serve as a way to access AI tools without paying a subscription fee. Altman cited Instagram as an example, where ads have helped users discover useful products, suggesting similar benefits could occur with ChatGPT ads.

A Shift from OpenAI’s Previous Stance

OpenAI’s decision represents a departure from its earlier position on ads. Previously, Altman described advertisements as an “aesthetic choice” he did not favor and warned against integrating them into ChatGPT responses, emphasizing that users trust the platform to provide unbiased information.

Rising Costs and Revenue Needs

OpenAI plans to spend more than $1 trillion on AI infrastructure over the coming years. Despite generating over $13 billion in annual revenue, the company requires a robust revenue model to sustain large-scale investments in AI.

While OpenAI already has a strong enterprise and subscription business, it aims to integrate advertising as an additional revenue stream. The goal is to make AI tools accessible to a broader audience while maintaining sustainability.

Future of ChatGPT Ads

OpenAI has made it clear that user feedback will guide the evolution of its ad model. Depending on how users respond to these initial trials, the company will adjust its approach, balancing revenue generation with user experience.

In summary, while ChatGPT users in the US will soon start seeing relevant advertisements, exemptions for minors and sensitive topics, along with transparency features, aim to ensure a secure and non-intrusive experience.