ChatGPT to Introduce Targeted Ads for Users
OpenAI, currently valued at $500 billion, is exploring a new revenue stream through advertising in its ChatGPT platform. Recently, the company announced plans to test limited ads for specific user tiers, particularly the free and Go accounts. The Go subscription, priced at $8 per month, was also launched globally.
Introduction of Targeted Ads in ChatGPT
In a blog post, OpenAI explained that introducing targeted ads is part of its strategy to support free access while generating income from users who aren’t inclined to subscribe. This initiative is set to roll out in the United States for both free and Go account holders.
Ad Placement and User Control
Ads will appear at the bottom of user conversations and will be tailored to the topics being discussed. Users have control over the advertising experience, with options to:
- Dismiss ads
- View reasons for specific ad placements
- Disable personalized advertising
Importantly, OpenAI has committed to not displaying ads to users under 18 years of age.
Maintaining Answer Independence
OpenAI emphasizes that the introduction of ads will not affect the integrity of ChatGPT’s answers. The company assures users that advertising will not influence the chatbot’s responses and has pledged not to sell user data to advertisers.
Potential Benefits for OpenAI
This advertising strategy presents a dual opportunity for OpenAI. It can accumulate substantial revenue from users of free and Go tiers while potentially incentivizing some users to upgrade to higher-priced subscriptions. Users appreciative of the application but adverse to ads may consider subscribing to avoid them.
Supporting the Mission
OpenAI asserts that its foray into advertising aligns with its mission. The initiative aims to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity.
This strategic move places OpenAI at the intersection of innovation and commercialization, promising a new chapter for the popular AI-driven platform.
