"OpenAI is planning to introduce ads to ChatGPT for the first time, according to newly discovered code within the AI chatbot's app. First spotted by computer engineer Tibor Blaho, the code suggests that OpenAI is testing ads and shopping features within a beta version of the ChatGPT Android app. "ChatGPT Android app 1.2025.329 beta includes new references to an 'ads feature' with 'bazaar content', 'search ad' and 'search ads carousel'," Mr Blaho noted in a post to X."
"ChatGPT has been completely free of ads since it launched in November 2022, with chief executive Sam Altman once describing them as a "last resort". The tech boss appears to have softened his stance in recent months, saying that he was open to the idea of introducing them. "I'm not totally against it," he said on his company's podcast in June. "I can point to areas where I like ads. I think ads on Instagram [are] kind of cool.""
"The amount of personalised data gathered by OpenAI through users' conversations with its chatbots could make the adverts highly targeted - and also highly profitable. OpenAI is yet to make a profit from its technology, despite expecting to generate $13 billion in sales in 2025 from premium tiers of ChatGPT. The revenue is offset by around $22 billion in spending, mostly from massive investment in computer chips, data centres and other digital infrastructure needed to train an host its AI."
Code found in a ChatGPT Android beta indicates OpenAI is testing ads and shopping features. Computer engineer Tibor Blaho identified references to an 'ads feature', 'bazaar content', 'search ad' and a 'search ads carousel' in the app build. ChatGPT has remained ad-free since its November 2022 launch, though CEO Sam Altman has recently expressed openness to ads. Personalised conversation data could make adverts highly targeted and potentially profitable. OpenAI expects $13 billion in 2025 sales from premium tiers but faces around $22 billion in spending, and HSBC analysis forecasts continued unprofitability without new revenue streams such as advertising.
Read at The Independent
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