Android code reveals OpenAI’s plans as user reports first ChatGPT 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. Despite massive funding from investors, OpenAI may be short on cash. There are substantive reports that the revenue from subscriptions, partnerships, and, possibly, advertising isn’t meeting the company’s burn rate.

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.

• “Wild. At least match the ad to the topic next time!” Yuchen Jin wrote on X.