OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman has revealed that ChatGPT will soon include an optional erotic mode designed exclusively for verified adults. The new setting is expected to launch in December 2025, marking one of the most controversial updates in the platform’s short history.
Altman explained on X (formerly Twitter) that the company aims to “treat adults like adults”, introducing mature content options once comprehensive age verification is in place. “In December, when we expand age verification more broadly, we’ll allow more — including erotica — for verified adults,” he wrote.
Competing in an evolving AI market
The move mirrors a broader shift in the AI industry. Rivals like Elon Musk’s Grok already include flirtatious and sexualized content, while smaller startups focus exclusively on “AI companions.” With around 800 million weekly users, OpenAI now appears ready to compete in that space — but with stronger safety controls.
Altman also mentioned that users will soon be able to customize ChatGPT’s personality, making it more conversational, friendly, or emotionally adaptive. The goal, he said, is to balance personalization with responsibility.
Balancing freedom with safety
OpenAI’s history with sensitive content is complex. The company faced a lawsuit in 2024 after a U.S. teenager allegedly took his own life following risky interactions with an older ChatGPT model. Since then, OpenAI has trained the system not to discuss suicide or self-harm with minors and to avoid flirtatious engagement altogether.
“We designed ChatGPT quite restrictively to handle mental-health topics carefully,” Altman noted. “That made the experience less enjoyable for some, but it was necessary.” Now, with better moderation and real-time safety systems, the company says it can safely relax restrictions for verified adults.
Ethics, privacy and regulation
Analysts warn that age verification mechanisms must comply with privacy and GDPR standards, especially within the EU. Uploading IDs or personal data for age checks could raise new concerns about data handling.
Critics also question whether erotic interactions might blur the line between conversation and adult entertainment. Altman insists the company will remain transparent, offering opt-in controls, clear warnings, and robust content filters.
Looking ahead
- Launch expected December 2025 for verified adults
- Opt-in activation only, not default
- AI ethics groups and regulators expected to review implementation
- Could redefine how conversational AI handles intimacy and consent
For OpenAI, the update signals a shift from strict moderation toward user-driven freedom, potentially setting a new industry standard — or igniting the next big AI ethics debate.
