ChatGPT Notice: Beta version provides evidence of advertising

Evidence of upcoming advertising in ChatGPT is mounting. While Sam Altman has long described advertising in AI chat as worrying and only a last resort, recent findings in the Android app's code show that OpenAI is taking concrete steps in this direction. At the same time, iPhone users benefit from an interesting advantage, as Siri will continue to provide ad-free access to ChatGPT.

ChatGPT is one of the most successful AI applications worldwide. Its increasing usage brings with it high operating costs that need to be secured in the long term. Advertising was not originally part of OpenAI's strategy. However, various reports and new technical indications suggest that advertising in the free version of the app will soon become a reality. This development shows that the business model is moving in a direction that seemed unlikely just a short time ago.

Android Beta provides clear clues

There have been previous reports that OpenAI is considering integrating advertising into the free version of ChatGPT. Now, a beta version of the Android app provides concrete evidence. Developer Tibor Blaho discovered several lines of code in version 1.2025.329 that clearly point to advertising features. These include terms like "Ads Feature," "Search Ad," and "Bazaar Content." These entries don't appear experimental, but rather like preparatory components for an advertising model.

The Information had previously reported that OpenAI was considering embedded advertising in chats. The findings in the Android app confirm these considerations. This suggests that the move towards an ad-supported, free ChatGPT offering is closer than previously thought.

Sam Altman's previous statements on advertising

Altman has previously expressed criticism of combining advertising and artificial intelligence. At a Harvard Business School event, he stated that advertisements in AI chats were particularly troubling to him. At the same time, he described advertising as a last resort for OpenAI's business model. However, he never completely ruled out the possibility. Current developments indicate that this last resort has now become part of active planning.

What advertising means for users

If advertising is introduced to ChatGPT, it will likely primarily affect free users. The integration will include both the Android and iOS apps. Those who wish to use ChatGPT without ads will probably have to switch to paid subscriptions. This aligns with the model of many large platforms that finance free use through advertising and offer ad-free versions for a fee.

iPhone users can partially bypass advertising.

Interestingly, iPhone users have a workaround, at least for certain questions. Thanks to the collaboration between Apple and OpenAI, Siri can automatically use ChatGPT for unanswered questions. These sessions are not used for AI training, and it's highly likely that no ads will appear in this mode. This stems from Siri's functionality as part of the operating system and the agreement between Apple and OpenAI.

To use ChatGPT, simply ask Siri a question that cannot be answered directly. In such cases, the request will be forwarded to ChatGPT. This provides an easy way to access the service occasionally without seeing advertisements.

Restrictions on Siri access

However, the Siri workaround does not replace the full use of ChatGPT. Complex dialogues, uploads, document analysis, or longer conversations are not possible via this method. Nevertheless, it does provide free, ad-free access to individual replies, as long as Apple maintains this functionality.

The path to an ad-supported ChatGPT model

The introduction of advertising in ChatGPT is becoming increasingly likely. The Android Beta provides clear evidence that OpenAI is actively working on ad integration. While Altman had long been critical of advertising, he never completely ruled it out. iPhone users have a limited alternative, as Siri continues to offer ad-free access to ChatGPT. Even though advertising is intrusive for many, it will likely be part of the free usage model. This development shows how ChatGPT continues to evolve while simultaneously creating new ways to use the service without ads. (Image: Shutterstock / jackpress)