OpenAI to start showing ads on ChatGPT’s free and Go tiers in India

THE NEWS

What happened

OpenAI announces the launch of advertising on ChatGPT's free and Go tiers specifically in India, marking a significant expansion of its ad revenue strategy ahead of a potential IPO. The initiative involves partnerships with major agencies WPP and Omnicom, targeting over 100 million weekly active Indian users who predominantly use lower-cost plans.

CONTEXT

Why it matters

OpenAI is rolling out advertising on ChatGPT's free and Go subscription tiers in India. With over 100 million weekly active users in the region, this move aims to diversify revenue streams before a potential IPO. The new ad platform partners with WPP and Omnicom, starting with 50 brands and a minimum daily budget of $7.60. This follows similar ad launches in the US and Europe.

AT A GLANCE

Key facts

• OpenAI will display ads on ChatGPT Free and Go tiers in India starting this month.
• The company has over 100 million weekly active users in India, with many on free or low-cost plans.
• Initial campaigns will feature 50 brands with a minimum daily budget of ₹725 ($7.60).
• OpenAI partnered with agencies WPP and Omnicom to manage the ad platform.
• OpenAI recorded $6.7 billion in revenue for Q2 2026, up from $5.7 billion previously.
• The company aims to reach 220 million paying subscribers by 2030.
• Ads have already launched in the US and Europe earlier this month.