OpenAI Introduces Ads in ChatGPT: What You Need to Know
On January 17, 2026, OpenAI announced an important shift in its service model, revealing plans to incorporate advertisements in ChatGPT for logged-in adult users in the United States. This initiative will apply to both free users and those subscribed to the low-cost ChatGPT Go tier and is set to roll out in the coming weeks.
Protecting User Data
OpenAI reassured its users that the privacy of their data remains a top priority. In a statement, the company clarified that conversations and user data will never be sold to advertisers. They emphasize maintaining a high standard for user experience, ensuring that advertisements are relevant and of high quality. Users also have the option to turn off personalized ads if they prefer a more generic advertising experience.
A New Business Model
The introduction of ads is part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to democratize access to artificial general intelligence (AGI). This phase in AI evolution is characterized by systems that can perform tasks at or beyond human intelligence levels. By implementing advertising, OpenAI aims to make these advanced capabilities more accessible to a wider audience. Furthermore, the company believes that this approach could significantly benefit small businesses and emerging brands that are striving to compete in the marketplace.
OpenAI ensured that the integration of ads would not interfere with the chatbot’s responses. Conversations will be kept private, and users can customize their ad experience. The ads will be marked clearly and will appear at the bottom of the user’s conversation.
Control Over Advertising Experience
While OpenAI has not disclosed the specifics of the user data that will be utilized for ad targeting, users will have the ability to learn more about why certain ads are presented to them. They can also dismiss advertisements and provide feedback on them. Notably, premium subscribers, including users on Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans, will be exempt from seeing any advertisements.
The company plans to launch ad tests that will display relevant sponsored products or services based on the content of the conversation. During the testing phase, ads will not be shown in accounts flagged as potentially belonging to users under 18 years of age. Additionally, advertisements will be restricted from appearing alongside sensitive topics such as health, mental health, or political discussions.
Transparency from Leadership
In response to the rollout, OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, emphasized that the company will not accept funding that would compromise the integrity of ChatGPT’s responses. He acknowledged the desire among many users to access AI tools without incurring costs, expressing hope that this new business model would be viable.
This development marks a significant transition for OpenAI, which has traditionally relied on subscription fees as its primary revenue source. In a recent discussion at Harvard University, Altman referred to the introduction of ads as a “last resort” for OpenAI’s business model. He has also described the combination of advertisements and AI as “uniquely unsettling,” highlighting the nuanced implications of this shift.
A Growing User Base
With approximately 800 million weekly active users as of early October 2025, ChatGPT has maintained a robust user engagement. OpenAI’s decision to introduce ads is not merely a change for revenue generation; it reflects the need for sustainable business practices to support the significant financial investments associated with bringing advanced AI technologies to users.
As OpenAI moves forward with this initiative, both users and small businesses will be watching closely to assess the impact of this new advertising strategy on their experiences and opportunities within the ChatGPT ecosystem.
