ChatGPT could soon be changed forever, at least for the free version of the AI platform. That is according to one of the key heads of Open AI, who recently made a statement about the future of ChatGPT, primarily regarding revenue streams.

One of the major points of contention for many is the increase in advertising. We have seen an increase in the number of ads on YouTube, while at the same time clamping down on ad blockers. There are also more and more apps that simply bombard users with ads. However, as annoying as ads may be, they are a proven revenue stream, and OpenAI is considering its options.

In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Open AI Chief Financial Officer Sarah Freer said the company is considering its options.

Freer continued, “Our current business is growing rapidly and we see significant opportunities within our existing business model. We are open to exploring other revenue streams in the future, but have no aggressive plans to pursue advertising.”

Given OpenAI's CEO's general aversion to advertising, it is surprising that this option is being considered. However, in an interview, Freer said that if OpenAI does go ahead with this plan, it will carefully consider when and where to place the ads. It is worth noting, however, that according to Android Authority, OpenAI has hired advertising talent from Meta and Google, indicating that plans are moving forward.

Ryan Morrison, AI editor for Tom's Guide, had this to say about the move: “The free version of ChatGPT has more features that were previously only available to those paying $20 a month for Plus. These include Advanced Voice mode and search. The latter is especially important as OpenAI seeks to compete with Google in its largest business area, but because the AI model is not inexpensive to run, the features can be made freely available while offsetting costs through advertising revenue.”

Thanks to Apple, the company may soon have more subscribers; the next update to iOS 18 will reportedly start promoting ChatGPT Premium in Apple's Settings app. There are also rumors circulating that Open AI is considering a higher-priced subscription in the future.

If Open AI can integrate advertising well enough to not get in the way, I see nothing wrong with this idea. But if you find the idea deplorable, there is a list of best alternatives to ChatGPT.