Earlier this year, OpenAI began adding advertisements to ChatGPT, with the release first applying to users in the US before expanding to the Asia Pacific region. Now, the AI firm has announced that starting today, ads will roll out to users in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia.
Much like in other markets, ads will only be served to free users and those on the low-priced ChatGPT Go plan. As such, users who do not wish to see ads can opt for the higher tier packages, namely the Plus and Pro plans for personal users, and the Business and Enterprise plans for organisations. Beyond that, only those aged 18 years and above will see ads.
During a media briefing session, OpenAI Vice President of Global Ad Solutions Dave Dugan clarified a few details on the ads implementation. To start, the ads will be clearly labelled and presented separate from the generated model responses. Dugan also asserted that the frequency of these ads will not be determined by whether or not the user is on the Free or Go tier. Instead, it will depend on factors like how often the user engages with ChatGPT, with the brand promising a “conservative” volume of ads.
Additionally, the company’s approach focuses more on the user’s goals, surfacing content that is relevant to a given task. For instance, a person inquiring about a trip to Bali may see ads for nearby accommodation or restaurants. These ad cards will be labelled and placed below ChatGPT’s answers. OpenAI also noted that advertising will not influence the chatbot’s responses.
Furthermore, the company claimed that the rollout continues to align with its own guiding principles regarding advertising. User conversations will remain private and not shared with advertisers. Other than that, the ad content will also adhere to the brand’s policies, with restrictions on sensitive or offensive material. The AI firm also noted that it will comply with local regulations.
With this launch, advertisers can access ChatGPT ads through the OpenAI Ads Solutions team, agency partners including dentsu, Havas Media, Omnicom Media, Publicis Groupe and WPP, as well as technology partners. Meanwhile, eligible enterprises such as small and medium businesses can head to the dedicated Ads Manager page to get started.
(Source: OpenAI press release)
