Android code reveals OpenAI’s plans as user reports first ad

OpenAI is reportedly nearing the launch of ads in the ChatGPT Android app, according to recent code findings. Meanwhile, one user says an ad has already appeared in the wild.

What’s new. Early references to an ad system were found in the latest ChatGPT Android beta (v1.2025.329). Inside the APK, TestingCatalog spotted strings such as:

• “ads feature”
• “bazaar content”
• “search ad”
• “search ads carousel”

These entries may suggest an ad framework under active development, likely focused on search, shopping, and product recommendation requests rather than disruptive display ads in every chat.

Zoom out. ChatGPT ads will help OpenAI offset the cost of serving free users as the platform handles more commercial queries. Paid plans would presumably remain ad-free.

Meanwhile. One $200/month ChatGPT Pro user reported seeing what looks like a live ad inside ChatGPT: a promo reading “Find a fitness class, Connect Peloton” surfaced during a discussion about Elon Musk’s interview on Nikhil’s podcast.

What’s next. There’s no timeline yet. But the new Android code suggests ads are shifting from exploration to implementation – a significant step toward ChatGPT becoming an ad-supported platform.

Why we care. This may look like the beginning of the “Google-ification” of ChatGPT, but it’s worth remembering that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said he loves Instagram ads, which suggests that may be the direction ChatGPT ads could take. Either way, this is worth watching, as ChatGPT ads could be a crucial platform for brands to reach nearly a billion users.

Over the past year, OpenAI has shifted from publicly distancing itself from advertising to quietly preparing for an ad-supported ChatGPT.

Catch up quick. Over the past year, OpenAI has shifted from publicly distancing itself from advertising to quietly preparing for an ad-supported ChatGPT.

• Late 2024: Executives insisted ads weren’t on the roadmap. CFO Sarah Friar said there were “no active plans” for advertising, and Altman called ads a “momentary industry” and a “last resort.”
• Early 2025: Internal forecasts leaked, showing OpenAI expected $1 billion in “free user monetization” revenue in 2026 – a clear sign ads were coming.
• Mid-2025: Hiring began. OpenAI posted roles to build campaign tools, attribution pipelines, and the core of an in-house ads platform.
• Late 2025: Altman’s tone shifted. He said Instagram ads had changed his mind, suggested there might be a “cool” ad model that benefits users, and acknowledged ChatGPT would likely try ads.