The Memory Tax: OpenAI May Use ChatGPT Memory for Targeted Ads

OpenAI is reportedly considering the use of ChatGPT’s memory feature to deliver targeted advertisements, according to The Information. The memory function would allow users to preconfigure personal background information, enabling ChatGPT to craft more contextually aware and tailored responses with each interaction. Such data could be used for personalised advertising, potentially more precise than the behavioural data typically gathered by cookies or other tracking methods used by ad networks.

Users retain the option to disable the memory feature to opt out of targeted advertising, though doing so would reduce the contextual relevance of ChatGPT’s responses and require users to re-enter background details for more accurate answers. OpenAI has reportedly hired several former Facebook employees to work on advertising-related initiatives, with an internal Slack channel suggesting these recruits may be tasked specifically with developing OpenAI’s advertising systems.

At present, ChatGPT already shows ads contextually within responses based on user queries, and memory-driven personalisation could make these advertisements even more closely targeted. 25 October 2025.