[Tech Thoughts] OpenAI's ChatGPT will test out ads. Here's what to expect.

"What might users expect from a ChatGPT with advertisements? We can examine the fine print by reading the company's announcement, but we can also discuss how it might play out in the long run. On Friday, January 16, OpenAI announced a number of updates that would be coming to its ChatGPT chatbot. In addition to launching ChatGPT Go, its $8-priced subscription tier, worldwide, ChatGPT will also eventually be testing out advertising for its free and Go tiers in the United States in the coming weeks."

"Said OpenAI, "Our mission is to ensure AGI (artificial general intelligence) benefits all of humanity; our pursuit of advertising is always in support of that mission and making AI more accessible." It added that it's aiming for the long-term value of ChatGPT, with the priority being "user trust and user experience over revenue." This, despite seeking to put ads into its free and low-cost subscription tiers."

"According to their announcement, advertising on ChatGPT will also be separated from the actual answers it gives users, and will thus not influence ChatGPT's responses. Said OpenAI, "Answers are optimized based on what's most helpful to you." The idea is to show ads after your answers, and, if you're curious enough, you can ask the ChatGPT interface to tell you more about the advertisement presented."

OpenAI announced a worldwide rollout of ChatGPT Go, an $8 subscription tier, and plans to test advertising in the United States for free and Go tiers. The stated purpose of advertising is to let more people use tools with fewer usage limits or without paying, linking ad revenue to broader accessibility. OpenAI frames the move as aligned with its AGI mission and emphasizes prioritizing user trust and experience over revenue. Advertising will be separated from generated answers, presented after responses, and users can request more information about ads. ChatGPT conversations are described as private from advertisers.

Read at RAPPLER