OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman is opening the door to adult content on ChatGPT while defending OpenAI’s evolving safety practices as the company faces legal and regulatory pressure.
Altman revealed Tuesday (October 14) that erotica and other mature material will be permitted on the platform for verified adult users beginning in December. The update marks a sharp pivot from the company’s prior stance, which banned sexually explicit content to avoid potential mental health risks.
In September, the Federal Trade Commission launched an investigation into several artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI, over concerns about how their tools might affect children and teens. The company is also facing a wrongful death lawsuit from a California couple who claim ChatGPT contributed to their 16-year-old son’s suicide, according to CNBC.
Altman acknowledged that earlier versions of ChatGPT were intentionally limited to protect users’ mental health but admitted that the restrictions made the tool frustrating for some. To address rising concerns, OpenAI recently introduced new parental controls and safety features aimed at shielding younger users. On Tuesday, the company also announced the formation of an advisory group focused on the psychological and emotional impacts of artificial intelligence. Alongside the adult content rollout, Altman shared that a revamped version of ChatGPT is on the way. The update will let users customize their chatbot’s tone and personality.