OpenAI will test visual ads in ChatGPT image generation in the US

In short: OpenAI says it will begin testing a new kind of visual ad in ChatGPT, starting with image generation in the US later this month.

What happened

OpenAI announced a new ad format for ChatGPT that shows images of sponsored products and services. The company says it will start testing these visual ads in the US later this month.

At first, the visual ads will appear when you use ChatGPT to generate images. OpenAI says the ads will be shown separately from the image you create, so they will not be inserted into the picture itself.

This is an expansion of ads OpenAI introduced in February. Until now, ChatGPT ads were text-based, usually a company name, logo, and link in a “sponsored” section under the chat.

OpenAI also said the ads will “not influence the answers ChatGPT provides.” People who pay for ChatGPT Plus, Pro, or Enterprise will not see ads.

OpenAI says it has safeguards to decide when a conversation is appropriate for ads. The goal is to avoid showing ads in sensitive situations, such as when someone may be emotionally vulnerable.

Why it matters

More ads in ChatGPT could change what people see while they use it, especially as more people rely on it for everyday tasks. Think of it like a free TV channel adding more commercials, while paid plans stay ad-free. It also raises practical questions for users, like how often ads will appear and what kinds of topics OpenAI will consider too sensitive for advertising.

Source: The Verge AI