That’s correct. There have been reports that several large language models, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, are exploring the use of advertising as a potential revenue stream.
Here’s a summary of the situation:
- Reason for exploring ads: While some versions of these language models have paid subscription options, reaching a wider audience through free, ad-supported versions could be financially attractive.
- Current state: As of March 2024, none of these models have fully implemented in-product advertising. However, companies like Google are experimenting with how ads might work with AI-powered services in general.
- Potential concerns: The integration of advertising into language models raises concerns about user privacy, the potential for manipulation, and the overall user experience.
It’s important to note that this is a developing area, and the eventual form and impact of advertising in language models remains to be seen.