OpenAI’s ChatGPT once led the AI race, but “AI slop”, generic, uninspired outputs resulting from declining model quality, has become a hurdle. As scale erodes performance, OpenAI is shifting from enterprise to consumer markets, leveraging user loyalty to sidestep slop and build a Meta-inspired monetization funnel. Here’s how they’re doing it.

AI slop emerges as models scale, producing bland, less capable outputs. Tweaks can’t fully fix it—larger models often amplify errors. In enterprises, memory features backfire, overfitting to narrow corporate data, resulting in sloppier outputs over time. OpenAI’s solution? Pivot to consumers, where personal engagement turns slop into attachment.

OpenAI is doubling down on everyday users, where AI memory fosters loyalty. By adapting to personal moments—like career dilemmas or emotional check-ins—ChatGPT becomes a tailored companion. With 700+ million weekly users, this habit-forming approach outshines performance/price wars, creating unbreakable consumer bonds.

In May 2025, OpenAI acquired Jony Ive’s io Products for $6.5 billion, merging Apple’s design finesse with AI innovation. At October’s DevDay, Altman and Ive unveiled screenless gadgets—wearables and pins that, for example, offer breathing cues on stressful days. These devices embed AI subtly into daily life, enhancing experiences without dominating attention.

Launched October 21, 2025, ChatGPT Atlas redefines browsing as an AI-driven oracle. Need a recipe? It scans stores, checks your allergies, and curates a list. This “AI OS” approach makes AI proactive, not reactive, collecting data to refine its ecosystem and combat slop by anticipating user needs.

OpenAI is adopting Meta’s ad model to sustain its consumer focus. This fall, they hired Meta’s ad specialists to integrate targeted, non-intrusive ads into chats. Mention a marathon? Expect a subtle shoe recommendation. With a massive user base, this attention-driven model funds OpenAI’s ecosystem, turning slop into a viable business.

OpenAI’s first-mover advantage, consumer loyalty, hardware integration, proactive browser, and ad strategy position it as the next Meta for the AI era. By prioritizing sticky user habits over enterprise struggles, OpenAI transforms slop into a strength, building an AI ecosystem that’s both pervasive and personal.

For charts: Menlo Ventures Report | SE Ranking