OpenAI has rolled out a cutting-edge age prediction feature globally for ChatGPT, its popular AI chatbot platform. This advanced tool is designed to estimate whether an account belongs to a minor, safeguarding young users by limiting their exposure to sensitive content. It's a strategic move as OpenAI gears up for the introduction of an adult mode that will support mature content.
Currently, when ChatGPT identifies an account as potentially under 18, it enforces additional protections to ensure age-appropriate interactions. For users mistakenly flagged as minors, regaining unrestricted access is as simple as verifying their age through Persona, OpenAI’s trusted identity verification service. This feature will soon be available to users in the European Union, expanding OpenAI’s commitment to user safety across borders.
Looking ahead, OpenAI has set its sights on launching an adult mode in the first quarter of 2026. This mode will be accessible exclusively to users who have verified their age, thereby enabling a controlled environment for mature content consumption. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has confirmed that age verification will be a prerequisite for accessing such content, while Fidji Simo, the company's applications chief, reiterated this timeline in December.
“Ensuring a safe and personalized experience for all users is at the heart of our strategy,” Altman stated.
This upcoming addition underscores OpenAI's commitment to creating tailored user experiences that prioritize both safety and accessibility.
ChatGPT continues to skyrocket in popularity, boasting 800 million weekly active users worldwide. In a bid to further enhance revenue streams, OpenAI has begun displaying advertisements to select users in the U.S. This initiative contributes to the organization’s impressive financial trajectory, with reported annualized revenue surpassing $20 billion in 2025, a significant leap from $6 billion in 2024.
The company's growth remains closely linked to their expansion in computing capacity, allowing for increased user engagement and monetization opportunities. With the rollout of age prediction and plans for an adult mode, OpenAI is clearly focused on offering more personalized, controlled user experiences while expanding its monetization efforts.