OpenAI says ads coming to ChatGPT in Europe next week

In Europe, ChatGPT users will begin seeing advertisements starting August 24 as OpenAI seeks to generate more revenue from its models. Initially launched in the U.S. in February, the advertising plan will now expand to cover 31 European countries. OpenAI aims to attract advertisers while preparing for an initial public offering that could value the company at nearly US$1 trillion.

This move comes as the AI company battles to compete with rivals such as Anthropic and lower-cost Chinese models, with the latter being essential to help offset OpenAI's financial losses.

OpenAI states that ads will be displayed on both the free version and Go subscribers in Europe, who pay eight euros ($9.30) monthly. The majority of OpenAI's one billion users remain free of charge, keeping the service ad-free. Critics warn that users may start doubting the integrity of ChatGPT's content if they perceive responses to be influenced by advertisers who are more focused on promoting their products and services.

OpenAI assures that conversations will remain private and no customer data will be sold to advertisers. The company emphasizes that ads in ChatGPT will always be clearly labeled and separate from the AI's responses, stating that advertising does not influence the answers ChatGPT provides.