OpenAI delays ChatGPT adult mode

OpenAI said it aims to launch a new “adult mode” for the ChatGPT chatbot during the first quarter of 2026, in order to improve the model’s age-detection tools before its release.

Following the announcement of a new age-control system designed to help the chatbot identify when it is interacting with minors, the company led by Sam Altman also revealed a new option that will allow verified adults to access erotic content in their conversations, LUSA reports, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

At the time, the technology company specified that the adult mode would be available in December of this year. However, OpenAI now plans to launch ChatGPT’s “adult mode” in the first quarter of 2026, KosovaPress reports.

The company explained that the delay is due to its desire to improve ChatGPT’s age-prediction capabilities before officially introducing the feature.

The age-identification system is designed to recognize whether the person chatting with the chatbot is under 18 based on behavior and, if so, adapt the conversation to “a ChatGPT experience with age-appropriate policies.”

This experience includes actions such as blocking explicit sexual content and other harmful material, as well as enabling third-party intervention when necessary to ensure safety.

OpenAI has begun testing the new model in several countries to assess its ability to identify teenagers while “not misidentifying adults,” with the aim of improving its accuracy.

As reported by CE Report, by ensuring the system functions correctly, OpenAI seeks to prevent potentially harmful chatbot behavior toward underage users, ensuring that the “adult mode” is available only to adults.