OPENAI
Retail has entered the chat
OpenAI has officially started testing ads inside ChatGPT, giving us a clearer idea of what kinds of products might soon show up during AI chats.
Several big companies, from retailers to car brands, have already signed on, and these ad spots are expected to be costly.
Ads will only appear for free users or people on OpenAI’s cheaper $8/month Go plan.
OpenAI says ads will be clearly labelled and won’t change what ChatGPT replies.
So far, these are the brands involved:
Target says ads will help users find products and deals based on what they type. For example, someone asking about easy kitchen appliances might see an ad for a Target air fryer.
Adobe plans to promote tools like Acrobat Studio and Firefly, its AI creative platform. It says the partnership is about learning how ads can fit into AI search experiences.
The home and kitchen retailer will test ads that highlight products when users are close to making buying decisions.
Ads won’t just be for physical products. Audible is joining to reach new audiobook listeners, though it’s not clear if ads will promote subscriptions or specific titles.
Ford, Mazda, Mrs. Meyer’s, and more
WPP Media is helping brands like Ford, Mazda, Mrs. Meyer’s, and luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet launch ads in ChatGPT.
Points to keep in mind:
Ads are now being tested in ChatGPT for free and low-tier users.
Early partners include Target, Adobe, Audible, and major car brands.
Many industries are joining the pilot, from groceries to luxury goods.
Other agencies, including Dentsu and Omnicom, are also bringing in clients across industries like travel, retail, beauty, tech, and fast food.
The chatbot era lasted five minutes before brands showed up with sponsorship deals.- MG