OpenAI is set to make waves in 2026 with a groundbreaking adult-only version of ChatGPT. This exciting development was confirmed by Fidji Simo, the CEO of Applications, who hinted at the company’s ambitious plans to innovate in AI content moderation.
The new "adult mode" will only roll out after OpenAI fine-tunes its age-prediction AI model. This model is designed to automatically filter content based on the user’s age, ensuring a tailored experience. Currently, OpenAI is rigorously testing this model across various countries to make sure it accurately identifies users under the age of 18.
OpenAI plans to launch the adult-only ChatGPT in the first quarter of 2026. Departing from traditional age confirmation methods, OpenAI is seeking a more sophisticated solution for age verification. This involves developing a model that can infer a user’s likely age from their behavior and context rather than relying on direct age input.
Until OpenAI is confident in this model’s independence, adult content will remain off-limits for ChatGPT. The announcement sparked intrigue, aligning with previous rumors following xAI's experiments with age-restricted features.
This adult version is expected to cover a wider range of mature topics, potentially including nudity and explicit content, and dive into discussions about human sexuality, relationships, and mental health. OpenAI aims to provide a more nuanced and mature AI experience while adhering to legal and safety standards.
“We are committed to setting a new standard with our behavioral-based age prediction model," said a representative from OpenAI. "Our goal is to respect user privacy while ensuring safety.”
As the demand for responsible online age verification grows, ChatGPT's adult mode could redefine the landscape of mature AI interactions, setting a precedent for future developments in the space.