OpenAI has officially launched advertising on ChatGPT. If you're in digital marketing, you've seen this movie before. And you know how it ends.
The Pattern We've Seen Before
Every major digital advertising platform has followed the same trajectory:
- Launch phase: Platform introduces ads with limited competition
- Arbitrage window: Early adopters get exceptional returns (cheap CPMs, high engagement)
- Word spreads: Success stories attract more advertisers
- Competition increases: Costs rise, returns normalize
- Maturity: Platform becomes table stakes, advantages go to those with deep expertise
We saw this with Facebook Ads (2007-2012), Instagram Ads (2015-2018), TikTok Ads (2019-2022), and now we're seeing it with ChatGPT Ads.
Why ChatGPT Ads Are Different
ChatGPT isn't just another social platform. It's a fundamentally different context for advertising:
- Intent-rich queries: Users come with specific problems to solve
- Conversational context: Ads can be woven into helpful responses
- High-trust environment: Users treat ChatGPT as an advisor, not a billboard
- B2B opportunity: Massive professional user base (ChatGPT Pro subscribers skew business)
The question isn't whether ChatGPT Ads will become a major channel. It's whether you'll be ahead of the curve or behind it.
Early Data Points
While the platform is still in limited release, early testers are reporting:
- CPMs 40-60% below comparable Google Display placements
- Click-through rates 2-3x higher than traditional display
- Exceptionally high conversion intent on product queries
- Strong performance for complex B2B solutions
Note: These are early, unverified reports. We expect metrics to evolve as the platform matures.
The Early Mover Playbook
Based on what we've seen work in previous platform launches:
- Secure your spot: Get approved for the ads program now (waitlist is growing)
- Start with learning budget: Invest enough to gather data, not enough to hurt if it doesn't work
- Focus on high-intent categories: Complex purchases, B2B solutions, high-consideration products
- Test native formats: Ads that feel like helpful suggestions outperform intrusive placements
- Measure properly: Set up attribution before you scale
Who Should Move First
ChatGPT Ads are likely to work best for:
- B2B SaaS and software companies
- Professional services (consulting, legal, financial)
- High-consideration consumer products
- Educational products and courses
- Any category where people ask AI for recommendations
The Window Is Open
History is clear: early movers on new ad platforms capture disproportionate value. The ChatGPT Ads window is open now. It won't stay open forever.
The question is: will you be one of the brands that established position early, or will you be playing catch-up a year from now?
Texin.ai helps brands navigate emerging advertising platforms. Contact us to discuss ChatGPT Ads strategy.
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