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    AI News·5 Oct 2026·via Quartz

    OpenAI is testing visual ads inside ChatGPT's image generation tool

    OpenAI plans to test a new visual ad format within ChatGPT's image generation tool, displaying advertisements alongside user-requested images. The company announced that testing will commence later this month in the United States with an initial group of advertisers.

    Nexa's Summary

    This development introduces a new revenue stream for OpenAI, specifically targeting the visual content generation feature within ChatGPT. By integrating clearly labeled ads directly into the image output, the company is exploring how to monetize user engagement with generative AI tools, moving beyond reliance on API access or premium subscriptions for all users.

    The initial testing phase in the U.S. suggests a strategic approach to gather data on user reception and advertiser performance in a key market. The outcomes from this early deployment will likely inform OpenAI's decisions regarding broader implementation and potential expansion into other regions, including Asia, where digital advertising landscapes are distinct.

    For users, the introduction of ads alongside generated images could change the platform experience. The success of this monetization model will depend on how the ads are perceived and whether users find the value of the image generation tool outweighs the presence of commercial content.

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