OpenAI is reportedly exploring the possibility of introducing advertisements within ChatGPT. The San Francisco-based artificial intelligence powerhouse is actively searching for a senior executive to lead its comprehensive monetization strategy across all platforms. This pivotal role will involve integrating ads into ChatGPT and its various user interfaces, alongside managing existing revenue streams like subscriptions and API services. Specific details regarding the format and implementation of these potential ads are still unknown.
OpenAI’s Strategy to Introduce Ads on ChatGPT
Sources indicate that Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, is spearheading the search for this new monetization chief. Simo has reportedly conducted interviews with various candidates, including some former colleagues from her time leading the Facebook app. It remains to be seen if OpenAI has identified a frontrunner for the position.
The chosen individual will assume the role of Head of Monetization, tasked with overseeing all revenue-generating initiatives not driven by direct sales or partnerships. This extensive portfolio will encompass managing subscriptions, developing new application programming interfaces (APIs), exploring novel monetization channels, and critically, integrating advertisements into OpenAI’s offerings.
Interestingly, this new executive will report directly to Fidji Simo, rather than OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Simo currently oversees a broad range of divisions, including ChatGPT, API development, corporate partnerships, and various new initiatives. Altman, on the other hand, is focused on the company’s core research, infrastructure, consumer hardware, and critical safety teams.
Speculation about ads on ChatGPT is not new. Last year, OpenAI’s Chief Financial Officer, Sarah Frias, mentioned in an interview that the company was considering an ad-based revenue model. At the time, she stated there were no immediate plans to implement it. However, the current search for a monetization head suggests a significant shift in this stance.
Further details regarding ChatGPT’s potential ad strategy are scarce. It remains unclear whether OpenAI intends to deploy traditional banner ads, integrate them into conversational flows, or explore other innovative formats. The company has also not disclosed if these ads will target only free-tier users or extend to paid subscribers as well.
OpenAI wouldn’t be the first in the AI space to incorporate advertising. Google already integrates labeled ads into its AI Overviews, and Perplexity displays ads within specific search queries. These existing models suggest a precedent for how AI-powered services might successfully incorporate advertising.