ChatGPT Ads Poised to Challenge Google With Conversation-Driven Targeting

OpenAI’s foray into ads with ChatGPT is developing into a potential new revenue engine that could threaten Google's search ads. Early Similarweb data shows ChatGPT ads target conversational intent rather than keywords, with “intent drift” meaning ads can appear as a chat progresses. Ads currently command around $60 CPM and roughly $12 CPC, with an average CTR near 0.68% and some campaigns hitting higher performance. Users tend to continue the conversation after an ad—about 73% of the time—suggesting the ads function as contextual recommendations rather than intrusive placements. If OpenAI can monetize effectively while preserving user experience, this could reshape how online advertising works and impact Google’s dominance in search ads.