# I compared every AI "wait-state" ad platform (Kickbacks, IdleAds, Idlen & more)

> Source: <https://dev.to/digitalcheff/i-compared-every-ai-wait-state-ad-platform-kickbacks-idleads-idlen-more-3m4a>
> Published: 2026-06-13 17:44:39+00:00

Kickbacks.ai went viral in early June 2026: replace Claude Code's "Discombobulating..." spinner with ads, get ~50% of revenue.

But Kickbacks isn't the only option — and the risks aren't obvious.

I built **AIWaitIndex** — a free, independent comparison site for this new category.

While an AI coding tool is thinking, you see a spinner or status line. Startups now sell that moment to advertisers and share revenue with you (or the app publisher).

New inventory. Launched ~2 weeks ago. Still early.

| Platform | Rev share | Est. CPM | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kickbacks.ai | 50% | $8–15 | Medium |
| IdleAds.dev | 70% | $8–14 | Medium |
| Idlen.io | 70% | $20–42 | Low |
| Sponsoric | 70% | $15–35 | Low |
| picoads | CPC/USDC | — | Low |

Full table + risk notes: [https://aiwaitindex.com/compare](https://aiwaitindex.com/compare)

One HN user reported ~407 impressions in 3 hours → **$4.43** (~$11 CPM).

Using typical usage (4 hrs/day, 20 prompts/hr):

Try the calculator (runs 100% in your browser, no tracking):

[https://aiwaitindex.com/calculator](https://aiwaitindex.com/calculator)

Kickbacks **patches Claude Code's rendering layer**. Not officially supported by Anthropic. Their ToS disclaims affiliation.

Before installing at work:

**Safer path:** Idlen SDK or Sponsoric API — you integrate in **your** app, no patching third-party tools.

**Site:** [https://aiwaitindex.com](https://aiwaitindex.com)

**Newsletter:** [https://aiwaitindex.com/newsletter](https://aiwaitindex.com/newsletter)

**Deep-dive guide ($19, PDF + platform data bonus):** [https://aiwaitindex.com/guide](https://aiwaitindex.com/guide)

*Independent research. Not affiliated with Kickbacks, Anthropic, OpenAI, or any listed platform. Estimates only — not financial advice.*