DeepMind CEO Reiterates: Gemini Will Not Include Ads for Now, ChatGPT Monetized Too Early

Google has reiterated that its generative AI service, Gemini, will maintain its ad-free strategy for the foreseeable future. As ChatGPT begins experimenting with displaying ads to users and exploring new revenue streams, Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis has also unusually commented on the competitor's actions, stating that he was surprised that ChatGPT had introduced ads so early.

In a recent interview at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, Hassabis pointed out that Google currently has no plans to add ads to Gemini, emphasizing that the company is still focused on strengthening the core experience and underlying technology, aiming to make Gemini a smart assistant that can operate in more contexts and on more devices.

This marks the second time Google has publicly reiterated its stance on advertising in Gemini. Back in late 2025, Dan Taylor, Google's Vice President of Global Advertising, publicly clarified that the Gemini app "has no ads and no plans to change that," responding to rumors that Google might integrate advertising into its AI products.

Regarding ChatGPT's recent foray into advertising, Hassabis stated that it's interesting that OpenAI has taken this step so early, speculating that it might be driven by revenue pressures. This statement demonstrates Google's confidence in its financial strength and long-term investment in AI, while also hinting that Gemini may not completely rule out advertising in the future.

Hassabis further pointed out that to create a truly trustworthy, highly personalized, and comprehensive AI assistant with access to a wealth of user information, users will inevitably expect the system's suggestions to be neutral and unaffected by commercial interests. Integrating advertising is not impossible, but it must be done with extreme caution, otherwise it could easily erode user trust.

However, it should be noted that Google has not made an absolute commitment to whether Gemini will "never put ads in it." But at least in the short term, Gemini will still prioritize not inserting ads and focusing on refining the user experience and technological maturity as an important strategy to differentiate itself from competitors.