Prompts that looked like ads spark complaints, forcing OpenAI to disable the feature
OpenAI has turned off a feature in ChatGPT that suggested third-party apps after users complained the prompts felt like ads. Even paid subscribers reported seeing recommendations for unrelated services like Peloton and Target.
OpenAI said these were never intended as ads, but part of its “apps inside ChatGPT” pilot program. The rollout, however, made many users feel the feature was intrusive. OpenAI acknowledged it “fell short” and paused the feature while reworking the design to give users more control.
Trust is central to ChatGPT’s appeal. Suggestions that feel like ads can erode user confidence, especially among paying customers.
By pausing the feature, OpenAI signals it is prioritising user experience over aggressive monetisation. This episode highlights how subtle design choices can significantly impact perception and user trust.
The “apps inside ChatGPT” platform launched in October 2025, aiming to integrate third-party services directly into the chat interface. Users, however, interpreted some suggestions as ads, fueling backlash.
OpenAI is under pressure to balance growth and monetization while maintaining user trust. The company has promised better controls when the feature returns.
