AI platforms to embrace advertising as revenue model, says Criteo chief

Michael Komasinski, chief executive of Criteo, has forecast a significant shift in how AI platforms generate revenue, predicting that advertising will become a standard feature across the sector. The advertising technology executive sees the move as a natural evolution, given advertising's proven track record as a scalable revenue generator.

Komasinski's assessment reflects broader industry trends, as AI companies seek sustainable monetisation strategies beyond direct user subscriptions and licensing models. Advertising has long served as the primary revenue engine for major technology platforms globally, from search engines to social media networks.

The prediction suggests that as AI applications proliferate and user bases expand, platforms will look to advertising as a way to offset development costs and fund ongoing innovation. This shift could reshape how AI services are delivered to consumers and businesses, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia where advertising-supported models have proven popular.

The move towards advertising integration among AI firms underscores how technology companies are adapting traditional business models to emerging platforms, leveraging audience scale to attract advertisers seeking new channels to reach consumers.