Reports indicate that OpenAI is advancing plans to integrate advertisements into ChatGPT. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that internal discussions have taken place regarding adjustments to certain AI models to prioritize sponsored content in ChatGPT responses. One individual who reviewed ad prototypes mentioned that discussions also covered various models for displaying recent advertisements within the app. Another insider suggested the company may develop a new form of digital advertising. Currently, the digital ad market is dominated by Google (GOOGL.US), Meta Platforms (META.US), and Amazon (AMZN.US), which collectively hold over 50% market share.

An OpenAI spokesperson stated, "As ChatGPT grows more powerful and widely adopted, we are exploring ways to enhance intelligent services for all users. This includes studying potential ad formats within our products. User trust in ChatGPT is paramount, and any solution will be designed to respect that trust."

Fidji Simo, CEO of OpenAI's application division, has been seeking a leader to oversee ChatGPT monetization efforts, including ad integration. In September, Simo reportedly met with multiple candidates, including former Facebook colleagues, to assemble a new team dedicated to ChatGPT's advertising business.

OpenAI CFO Sarah Friar previously confirmed the company is evaluating ad integration. Entering the ad market could significantly boost OpenAI's revenue—a critical factor as the company prepares for a potential $100 billion funding round.

In November, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman disclosed that ChatGPT's developer currently generates "well over" $13 billion in annual revenue, projecting it could reach $100 billion by 2027. OpenAI's current revenue streams include ChatGPT subscription sales to consumers and businesses, as well as access to its application programming interface (API) and other tools.