ChatGPT to Start Showing Ads in User Conversations

By Linet Amuli - Reporter

Kenya, 17 January 2026 - OpenAI is set to introduce adverts within ChatGPT for some users, marking a significant change in the way the popular AI tool operates.

The company announced that the trial will begin in the U.S., affecting both users of the free version and a new subscription tier called ChatGPT Go.

The ads will appear after a user prompt, tailored to the content of the query. For example, asking ChatGPT for travel recommendations in Mexico might trigger a banner ad suggesting holiday rentals in the area. OpenAI has shared example screenshots showing the ads clearly labeled as “sponsored,” ensuring transparency.

The company emphasises that these ads will not influence ChatGPT’s responses and that no conversation data will be shared with advertisers.

ChatGPT Go, the new subscription tier, will cost $8 per month or the equivalent in other currencies. It is designed to provide users with a more affordable option while still offering fewer usage limits than the free service. This sits alongside OpenAI’s existing Plus and Pro tiers, priced at $20 and $200 per month in the US. The Go tier was first introduced in India in 2025 before being expanded to other countries, reflecting OpenAI’s global rollout strategy.

The move toward ads represents a broader shift for OpenAI, which began as a non-profit organization but has increasingly focused on commercial operations. While founder Sam Altman previously described advertising as a “last resort,” the decision aligns with industry trends, where advertising remains a major revenue source for software companies.

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OpenAI says the goal of introducing ads is to allow more people to benefit from its tools with fewer usage restrictions, balancing accessibility with revenue needs.

For users, the experience will remain largely the same. Ads will appear as banners relevant to the queries they enter, providing useful suggestions without interfering with the AI’s responses.

OpenAI’s approach aims to keep the AI experience intact while exploring sustainable ways to support the platform’s growth.

As AI tools continue to expand into everyday life, OpenAI’s trial offers a glimpse into the future of AI monetisation.

By combining subscription tiers with relevant advertising, ChatGPT may set a precedent for how AI services balance user experience with business sustainability.