AI Reports · Brookings · 2026-10-26 · Blog / commentary
Understanding the beginning of advertising on ChatGPT
ChatGPT began showing ads to users of its free and low-cost tiers in February 2026. A large-scale analysis found that accounts from low-income zip codes received ads more often and in greater numbers. The authors note that platform ads can be discriminatory in hiring, housing, and education or used for political manipulation, and they urge policymakers to act now and require independent access to monitor ads on an ongoing basis.