OpenAI announced new updates to ChatGPT's privacy policy, aimed at using limited data from users to deliver targeted ads outside the platform, in a move reflecting a new direction toward boosting revenue.
How Are Users Tracked?
According to the update, OpenAI will rely on cookies and device identifiers to collect basic information about user activity. As a result, personalized ads for services such as ChatGPT can be displayed on other websites and apps, without sharing conversation content.
Privacy Protection Despite Tracking
In contrast, the company confirms that conversations remain completely private and are not shared with any external parties. Data is also used in a limited way only to improve ad targeting accuracy and measure effectiveness, especially in attracting free users to subscribe to paid plans.
Collaboration with Marketing Partners
Furthermore, OpenAI may collaborate with marketing partners to display personalized ads based on user behavior, including tracking interaction with these ads, such as signing up for new services after viewing them.
Option to Disable Tracking
On the other hand, the new settings provide an option to disable this type of tracking via the Marketing Privacy feature inside the account. However, this option is enabled by default in free accounts, meaning users who do not wish to be tracked must manually disable it.
A Step Amid Increasing Competition
This step comes at a time when major tech companies like Google are integrating ads into AI services, reflecting the growing competition to generate revenue from this fast-growing sector.
The Future of Ads in ChatGPT
In the end, OpenAI has already begun testing ad display inside ChatGPT for some users, as part of a broader strategy to diversify revenue streams. Despite this, the company confirms it does not sell personal data, but only uses it in a limited way while giving users clear control over privacy settings.
