ChatGPT May Soon Get Ads As OpenAI Searches For Monetisation Chief

OpenAI could be preparing to introduce ads on ChatGPT as part of its next big revenue push. A new report claims that the San Francisco-based AI company is looking to hire a senior executive who would head its monetisation strategy across different platforms, including ChatGPT. The move suggests that OpenAI may be considering ads as a fresh source of income alongside its existing subscription and API offerings. Also Read: 7 AI Tricks To Unlock Your Creativity

According to the report, Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, is leading the search for the new hire. Simo, who previously served as head of the Facebook app, has reportedly met with several candidates and even reconnected with former colleagues to discuss the role. The chosen executive would become OpenAI’s “Head of Monetisation” and take charge of new revenue channels that are not tied to partnerships or direct sales. This would likely include subscriptions, APIs, experimental business models – and potentially ad integration. Also Read: Sam Altman Says ChatGPT Will Restrict Suicide-Related Conversations With Teens

Interestingly, the person in this position would report directly to Simo, not OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. While Altman continues to oversee research, infrastructure, consumer hardware, and safety, Simo is said to handle ChatGPT, APIs, partnerships, and newer initiatives.

Rumours about ads on ChatGPT are not entirely new. Last year, OpenAI’s Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar hinted that an ad-based revenue model was being explored, although at the time she clarified that there were no active plans. That position could shift if the company decides to move forward with this appointment.

For now, it’s unclear what ads on ChatGPT might look like – whether banner-style, sponsored answers, or another format. It’s also uncertain if they would only affect free-tier users or extend to paying subscribers. What’s clear is that OpenAI is not alone in exploring this path. Google’s AI Overviews already display ads in search results, while Perplexity AI has integrated ads into select queries.