OpenAI mulls ad integration on ChatGPT as a potential revenue stream.
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is reportedly evaluating the possibility of introducing advertisements on its AI chatbot platform.
While the specifics, including the timing and format, remain undecided, speculation suggests ads might target free users. Another possibility involves a broader implementation model, similar to Perplexity AI, which is currently experimenting with displaying ads to all users.
A Financial Times report highlights that advertising could provide OpenAI with an additional revenue channel. Sarah Friar, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, acknowledged the concept, emphasizing the importance of being “thoughtful about when and where we implement them.”
Friar later clarified that OpenAI’s focus remains on growing existing revenue models, which have shown accelerated growth, and stressed there are no active plans to pursue advertising at this time.
However, Friar did not rule out future ad-based strategies. Citing anonymous sources, the report also suggests OpenAI has been recruiting talent from major players like Meta and Google, reinforcing the speculation around its ad-related ambitions.
Ad-based models have gained traction as a quick revenue generator. Perplexity AI, for instance, is piloting sponsored content on its platform in the United States, with possible expansion to other markets. Google, too, has started incorporating ads in its AI-generated summaries on its Search platform.
OpenAI, meanwhile, continues to explore diverse revenue opportunities. Its collaboration with Apple earlier this year integrated ChatGPT into Apple’s operating systems, marking a significant milestone.
The firm has also launched an AI-driven search engine and is reportedly working on advanced offerings, including AI agents and the Sora video model.
While ads on ChatGPT remain an idea for now, the potential move underscores OpenAI’s strategy to diversify revenue while maintaining its leadership in AI innovation.
