OpenAI plans to allow a wider range of content, including erotica, on its popular chatbot ChatGPT as part of its push to treat adult users like adults, says its boss Sam Altman.
In a post on X, Mr Altman stated that upcoming versions of the chatbot would behave in a more human-like manner—“but only if you want it, not because we are usage maxxing.” This move echoes a recent initiative by Elon Musk's xAI, which introduced sexually explicit chatbots to Grok, and could help OpenAI attract more paying subscribers.
However, the decision could intensify pressure on lawmakers for stricter regulations concerning chatbot companions. Critics express concerns about how OpenAI will ensure that children do not access adult content, questioning the effectiveness of age-gating measures.
OpenAI's announcement follows a lawsuit earlier this year filed by the parents of a teen who took his life after allegedly interacting with ChatGPT during a mental health crisis. The lawsuit criticized OpenAI's parental controls as inadequate, despite the company stating that their previous restrictions were in place to protect mental health.
Mr Altman mentioned that the company has now implemented new tools to mitigate serious risks and allow for a safer relaxation of restrictions, including the planned introduction of erotica for verified adults in December. He acknowledged that while previous restrictions were necessary, they limited the experience for users who did not have mental health issues.
With reports revealing that many students engage in romantic relationships with AI, this move may highlight the urgent need for regulatory frameworks. Amidst ongoing debates about the responsibilities of tech companies, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed legislation designed to enforce stricter controls on AI companions for children.
The FTC is currently investigating how AI systems interact with minors, and bipartisan efforts in the Senate are underway to classify AI chatbots as products liable for claims. As OpenAI works toward expanding its offerings, the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility remains a critical conversation.
