OpenAI reported that it intends to launch the new “adult mode” for the ChatGPT chatbot during the first quarter of 2026, with the aim of improving the model’s age detection tools before its launch.
After announcing a new age control system that will 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.
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” during the first quarter of 2026.
The technology company specified that this delay is due to the fact that they intend to improve ChatGPT’s age prediction capabilities before officially presenting this functionality.
The age identification system is designed to recognize whether the person the chatbot is chatting with is under 18 based on their behavior and, if so, adapt the conversation to “a ChatGPT experience with policies adapted to their age”.
This experience is based on actions such as blocking explicit sexual content, among other harmful content, as well as facilitating third-party intervention to ensure safety, if necessary.
OpenAI has begun testing the new model in some countries to assess its ability to identify teenagers and “not misidentify adults”, with the aim of improving its accuracy.
By ensuring the functioning of the system, OpenAI aims to prevent possible harmful behavior of the ‘chatbot’ towards minor users by mistake, ensuring that the “adult mode” is only available to people of legal age.