Archive · 7 Oct 2026
OpenAI to Test Visual Ads During ChatGPT Image Generation
OpenAI plans to test picture-based ads in ChatGPT.
They may appear while ChatGPT is making an image for a user.
The ad will be separate from the image ChatGPT creates.
OpenAI says the ads will be clearly marked.
It also says ads will not change the chatbot’s answers.
The first test is planned for people in the United States later this month, with a limited group of advertisers.
ChatGPT has also tested ads below some answers.
OpenAI says early results suggest businesses can attract new customers through its ads.
OpenAI plans to test visual ads that appear while ChatGPT generates images, initially with a limited group of advertisers and users in the United States later this month.
The ads will appear during image processing, separate from the generated image, and can use pictures to promote products, deals, or services.
OpenAI says the ads will be clearly marked and will not affect ChatGPT’s answers.
The new format adds to existing ChatGPT ad tests, including ads placed below relevant responses.
OpenAI says early advertising results show lower customer-acquisition costs, while businesses report higher new-customer acquisition rates.
- Who
- OpenAI, ChatGPT users in the United States, and a limited group of advertisers.
- What
- OpenAI plans to test visual ads shown while ChatGPT generates images.
- When
- The test is expected to begin later this month; no exact date is stated.
- Where
- The initial test will be in the United States.
- Why
- The format gives advertisers a way to promote products, deals, and services alongside ChatGPT’s visual features.
Reasons for the expansion
Potential user concerns
Advertising in ChatGPT
Reasons for the expansion
OpenAI says visual ads give brands a way to promote products, deals, and services while users use image-generation features.
Potential user concerns
The reporting notes that more prominent advertising could change the experience for free users and may lead some to consider paid subscriptions to avoid ads.
Effect on chatbot responses
Reasons for the expansion
OpenAI says advertisements will be clearly marked and will not affect ChatGPT’s answers.
Potential user concerns
The articles do not present a specific opposing claim about response influence; the stated concern is the broader impact of more advertising on the user experience.
- Ad format
- Visual ads shown while an image prompt is being processed
- Initial market
- United States
- Expected timing
- Later this month; no exact date stated
- Initial participants
- A limited group of advertisers
- Ad placement
- During image generation, separate from the resulting image
- OpenAI’s stated safeguards
- Ads will be clearly marked and will not influence ChatGPT’s answers
- Reported early results
- OpenAI says initial findings show lower cost per acquisition; businesses report higher new-customer acquisition rates
