OpenAI has introduced references to an ads system in the beta version of its ChatGPT Android app, indicating plans to integrate advertising in mobile products for the first time. The beta APK reveals new terms like “ads feature,” “bazaar content,” and “search ads carousel,” suggesting a focus on ads linked to search and shopping queries rather than standard user interactions. This aligns with strategies by tech giants like Google and Microsoft, which embed ads in generative responses. The inclusion of “search ads carousel” points to a marketplace-style display of sponsored content alongside organic results, particularly for product recommendations. This advertising initiative appears to be a strategic move to offset operational costs for free users, expected to maintain an ad-free experience for premium subscribers. Overall, this development illustrates the growing convergence of AI assistants with traditional ad-driven platforms, positioning ChatGPT to compete effectively in a monetized landscape. The rollout timeline remains uncertain.
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