OpenAI Tests Ads on ChatGPT Android as User Growth Surges Past 800 Million Weekly
Fundacion Rapala – OpenAI sparked widespread curiosity after a social media user named Tibor discovered internal code hinting at an upcoming advertising feature in the ChatGPT Android app. The beta version 1.2025.329 revealed terms such as “ads feature,” “search ads carousel,” and “bazaar content.” These findings quickly circulated across tech communities, raising questions about OpenAI’s long-standing commitment to an ad-free experience. For many users, the discovery felt like a turning point suggesting a shift toward monetization as the platform grows. Although OpenAI has not issued a formal statement, the presence of such code indicates the testing phase may already be underway. As conversations spread, users began speculating about how ads might alter the overall experience, especially for those who rely on ChatGPT for daily tasks.
Early Tests Focus on Search, But Expansion Is Possible
According to reports from BleepingComputer, OpenAI appears to be experimenting with ad placements within the app’s search feature. This approach mirrors the strategies used by search engines that rely heavily on high-traffic queries. While the tests remain internal, the code suggests ads may later appear in other sections of the app. This news led to a split reaction some users welcomed the idea as a reasonable business move, while others worried it could disrupt the fluid and clean interface that ChatGPT users rely on. Even so, these small experiments reflect a broader trend in AI platforms: balancing revenue generation with user experience. If rolled out carefully, the new format might support OpenAI’s rapid expansion without overwhelming everyday users.
“Read More : Google’s Aluminium OS: The Race Toward a Unified Future“
Massive User Growth Creates Huge Monetization Potential
ChatGPT has seen explosive growth over the past three years. In late 2023, the platform had 100 million weekly users. By the end of 2024, the number climbed to roughly 300 million. Now, in 2025, OpenAI reports an astonishing 800 million active users every week. Studies supported by OpenAI estimate that 700 million users could send as many as 18 billion messages weekly by mid-2025. Analysts also believe ChatGPT handles between 5 and 6 billion monthly visits, with India serving as its largest market. These numbers reveal why advertisements could become a powerful new revenue stream. As usage continues to rise globally, OpenAI may see ads as a sustainable way to support ongoing infrastructure, training, and deployment of advanced AI models.
GPT-5.1 Brings New Models and Personalized Styles
Alongside ad experiments, OpenAI continues refining its model lineup. The company recently introduced GPT-5.1, expanding its offerings with two new variants: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. The Instant model focuses on faster responses and natural conversation flow, while the Thinking model handles complex tasks with improved logic and persistence. Users now experience smoother interactions and better accuracy than earlier versions. OpenAI also introduced customizable conversation styles Professional, Friendly, Efficient, Nerdy, and more to match individual preferences. This personalization marks a major shift from previous “one-style-fits-all” systems. CEO Fidji Simo emphasized that with more than 800 million users, customization is no longer optional. This expansion hints at OpenAI’s broader mission to make AI feel more human and adaptable.
“Read More : UK–Germany Quantum Alliance: A New Era of Scientific Power“
Community Reactions Rise After GPT-5 Backlash
Earlier this year, OpenAI faced criticism when GPT-5 launched with performance gains many users felt were too small. The company initially replaced GPT-4o as the default model, triggering frustration across its community. After significant backlash, OpenAI restored GPT-4o as an alternate option within 24 hours. The incident highlighted a growing tension: constant upgrades must feel meaningful to users who rely on ChatGPT’s stability. The return of GPT-4o softened the criticism, but it also underscored how sensitive users are to sudden changes. In response, OpenAI promised clearer communication and gradual rollouts. With the release of GPT-5.1, the company aims to rebuild trust through transparency, better performance, and more consistent updates.
OpenAI Faces Intensifying Competition From Rivals
As OpenAI refines its strategy, competitors are expanding quickly. Microsoft increasingly relies on Anthropic’s models to power services like Copilot Researcher, GitHub Copilot, and Office Agent tools. This move indicates that even OpenAI’s closest partner is open to diversifying its AI portfolio. Meanwhile, OpenAI launched ChatGPT Atlas, a feature allowing the system to perform browser actions on behalf of users. These additions signal that OpenAI is not solely focused on raw model upgrades but also on real-world functionality. With ads entering the picture, the company appears to be preparing for an ecosystem that supports deeper integration, broader tools, and long-term financial sustainability all while navigating fierce competition.