ChatGPT to Show Ads to Free Users? A New Ad-Supported Plan and Pricing
OpenAI plans to show ads to free ChatGPT users, mainly during shopping-related searches, and may introduce a cheaper ad-supported plan alongside Plus and Pro to sustain free access.
OpenAI is exploring advertising for ChatGPT's free tier. The move could help sustain free access while new options are evaluated. The plan would span all platforms, including iOS, macOS, Android, and the web.
Experts say ads would likely appear when users perform shopping-related searches or requests. The ads might appear as discreet results integrated into the chat experience, with relevance driven by user queries.
What to expect from the ads in ChatGPT
Advertising in ChatGPT is being discussed as a way to fund free access. Expect ads to surface mainly during product searches, with careful placement to minimize disruption.
New pricing and plan options
Current paid plans include Plus at $20 per month and Pro at $200 per month. Reports indicate OpenAI could add an ad-supported tier at a lower price, offering a trade-off between cost and advertising.
Leadership stance and timing
OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman previously called advertising a last resort. By 2025, he noted that well-chosen ads could provide clear benefits to users when aligned with their needs.
Expert comment: A tech analyst says an ad-supported option could broaden access if ads remain unobtrusive and privacy protections are strong. The key is delivering value without compromising the chat experience.
Summary
OpenAI is weighing ads for the free ChatGPT tier, with ads likely to appear during shopping-related searches. A cheaper ad-supported plan could sit alongside Plus and Pro, offering users a choice between ads and premium features. The move aims to sustain free access while maintaining service quality.
Key insight: If ads are relevant and unobtrusive, a carefully designed ad-supported path could keep ChatGPT accessible while funding ongoing development.