ChatGPT already shills products; it just does so semi-randomly and usually at the behest of the user. I think this could actually push users away if it prioritizes paid content over tailoring itself to the user, which would be a weirdly positive outcome.

To make a simplistic example, take someone who’s into aluminum foil to block mind control waves. If ChatGPT won’t shut the fuck up about Reynolds Wrap and links to where you can buy Reynolds Wrap, that might be a tipping point that gets them to close the app. Which won’t make them all better, but at least they wouldn’t be using AI to get worse.

ChatGPT might finally be made incapable of discussing harmful topics if advertisers don’t want negative associations, giving Sam Altman the monetary incentive he needs to pretend he gives a shit about human lives.