I think this points to future optimizing will be focused on making inference really inexpensive.

I only use AI occasionally to help with HTML boiler plate, CSS and sometimes basic search queries. I'm guessing I represent the target market pretty well... I'm not a programmer, just an average IT guy.

I haven't paid for any AI from any company yet and have zero plans to do so. Everything I need is free, why pay for it?

I hope all AI's become free. Pro devs can pays for higher teirs, but free plans should be generous and functional

1. They're adding ads.

2. I've been paying for it since day 1.

With 700 million+ users, they're a huge threat to Meta and Google's online ad duopoly.

This is a temporary situation; people need to learn what AI is and giving it for free is the best way; then once the value is proven to them, they'll complain but pay if it's significant enough (which it certainly is for me, I use it a ton. I would have also paid for an ad-free Google if that were a thing though)