Why there are no free lunches in AI, and how to stay conscious
In January 2026, OpenAI quietly crossed a Rubicon. ChatGPT—the friendly AI that once felt like a glimpse into a utopian future—began testing advertisements. For free-tier users, and even those paying Rs 650/month for the GO tier, ads now appear at the bottom of responses. Sponsored modules. Contextual recommendations. The beginning of what industry watchers are…