OpenAI launched ChatGPT with low expectations and little fanfare. But the chatbot was an instant hit and went on to become one of the fastest growing consumer apps in tech history. ChatGPT’s surprise success gave OpenAI its first shot to make big money, and the company moved quickly to cash in — even as critics called out some very real problems with the company’s hit product.  Further Reading: Outcry Against AI Companies Grows Over Who Controls Internet’s Content  The Awkward Partnership Leading the AI Boom  Further Listening: Artificial: Episode 1, The Dream   Artificial: Episode 2, Selling Out  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices