OpenAI is set to shake up its ChatGPT model with some intriguing updates, according to CEO Sam Altman. The forthcoming changes aim to make the AI chatbot more "friendly," both emotionally and otherwise, as Altman suggested that adult users might soon have a more engaging experience. This move follows plans to introduce age-gating, ensuring a tailored interaction for minors and adults alike.
The buzz began with a post Altman shared on X, addressing the backlash from the GPT-5 update that many users felt stripped the chatbot of its beloved personality. Altman explained that OpenAI has tackled mental health concerns linked to AI use and is now ready to loosen some of its stringent content policies, backed by enhanced safety tools and parental controls.
"We're treating adult users like adults," Altman emphasized, hinting at a more open approach to adult-themed content.
With these changes, a new ChatGPT version will aim to recapture the charm of previous iterations like GPT-4o. By December, verified adult users will be able to access less restricted, potentially more explicit, conversations.
The community's response to Altman's announcement was varied. Some users were displeased, longing for a simple return to the favored GPT-4o model rather than a replacement. Others humorously took note of Altman's seemingly contradictory stance, especially after previously stating pride in keeping AI sex bots out of ChatGPT and predicting grand AI achievements like curing cancer.
As OpenAI gears up for these bold changes, the tech world is watching closely. The extent of Altman's revamped approach remains to be seen, with many curious about the mechanics of age verification and the potential impact on the ChatGPT experience.
Mashable reached out to OpenAI for further comments but had not received a response by the time of publication.