OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in a recorded interview that the company may test advertising in ChatGPT at some point, while rejecting pay-to-rank ads that could influence recommendations. He also described a possible transaction-fee model for one-click bookings made through ChatGPT.
Key details
Altman contrasted a user-paid model with ad-funded ranking, noting that people pay for ChatGPT because they trust it.
"I expect it's something we'll try at some point. I do not think it is our biggest revenue opportunity."
- Ranking a worse option above a better one for payment would be "catastrophic" for user trust.
- He outlined one-click booking where OpenAI could take a standard transaction fee without affecting ranking.
- He did not specify potential ad formats or timing.
"Ads on a Google search are dependent on Google doing badly."
"I want to discover new science and figure out a way to monetize that."
How monetization could work
Altman described a commerce model where ChatGPT facilitates a one-click booking or purchase and OpenAI takes a standard transaction fee. He said such fees would not influence ranking, which would continue to prioritize the best result for users.
Background
OpenAI currently monetizes ChatGPT through consumer and business subscriptions and developer API usage. Current pricing is listed on the company's official site: OpenAI pricing. The company has not announced an advertising product for ChatGPT.
Source
Altman's statements were made during a recorded interview published online.
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