AI
OpenAI launches ChatGPT ads in India as it pursues revenue growth
The company will roll out advertisements to free and lower-tier users in its largest market outside the US, while preparing for a potential public offering.
TechCrunch — AI
OpenAI is bringing advertising to ChatGPT users in India, starting with its free and Go subscription tiers. The initiative reflects the company's broader push to diversify revenue streams ahead of a potential initial public offering expected within the next two years.
Ads coming to India's massive user base#
India has emerged as a critical market for OpenAI, with the company reporting over 100 million weekly active ChatGPT users in the country. Many of these users rely on either free access or the budget-friendly Go tier, making the region attractive for advertising expansion. OpenAI plans to begin with advertisements from 50 brands and has enlisted major ad agencies WPP and Omnicom to support the rollout.
Starting next month, marketers will gain access to an ad manager tool that allows them to build campaigns for their businesses, with a minimum daily budget requirement of ₹725 (approximately $7.60).
Building India into a strategic market#
OpenAI has invested heavily in establishing its presence in India over the past year. The company introduced an affordable ChatGPT Go plan priced below $5 and ran promotional campaigns offering the tier free for a full year. The company also capitalized on high-profile sports sponsorships, including partnerships with the Women's Premier League and Indian Premier League cricket tournaments.
In June 2026, OpenAI further signaled its commitment by recruiting Uber's India chief to spearhead the company's expansion efforts in the country.
Expanding a global ads strategy#
The India launch represents the next chapter of OpenAI's ad initiative, which first rolled out to US users in February 2026. The company subsequently extended advertising to European markets earlier this month, demonstrating its intention to embed ads across all major regions.
Revenue acceleration ahead of IPO#
OpenAI has intensified efforts to strengthen its financial performance as it prepares for a potential public offering. The company generated $6.7 billion in revenue during the second quarter of 2026, up from $5.7 billion the previous quarter. Industry reports suggest the company is targeting 220 million paid subscribers by 2030, compared to 35 million paying users at the time of that projection.
