Artificial intelligence firm OpenAI is anticipating that by 2030, approximately 220 million of its weekly ChatGPT users will pay for a subscription, according to a report from The Information published on Tuesday. This projection suggests that about 8.5% of an estimated 2.6 billion weekly users will opt for a paid subscription, potentially positioning ChatGPT as one of the largest subscription services globally.
As of July, around 35 million users, or approximately 5% of ChatGPT’s weekly active user base, were enrolled in paid plans, namely the “Plus” and “Pro” options, priced at $20 and $200 per month, respectively. The report indicates that this growing user base could significantly bolster OpenAI’s financial standing.
Despite these optimistic subscription forecasts, OpenAI faces substantial challenges, including mounting losses. Sources have informed Reuters that the company’s annualized revenue run rate is projected to reach around $20 billion by the end of this year. However, expenses related to research and development, particularly those linked to the development of AI technologies and the operation of ChatGPT, have resulted in substantial financial outflows.
In the first half of 2025, OpenAI reportedly generated around $4.3 billion in revenue, marking a 16% increase compared to the entirety of 2024. However, the company incurred losses of approximately $2.5 billion, largely due to high R&D expenditures. This financial landscape highlights the delicate balance OpenAI must navigate between innovation and profitability.
Looking towards the future, OpenAI anticipates that about 20% of its revenue will originate from new offerings, including features focused on shopping and advertising. Recently, the company introduced a personal shopping assistant within ChatGPT, a move that could facilitate monetization through advertising or commission-based sales. This strategic expansion reflects OpenAI’s efforts to diversify its revenue streams and enhance profitability amidst operational challenges.
As the AI sector continues to expand, OpenAI’s trajectory will be closely monitored by industry observers and investors alike. The success of ChatGPT as a subscription service could not only redefine the company’s financial outlook but also influence broader trends in the AI landscape, particularly in how users are engaged and monetized.
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