OpenAI is set to broaden the scope of content available on its widely-used chatbot, ChatGPT, to include erotica, as part of its initiative to ‘treat adult users like adults,’ according to CEO Sam Altman. In a recent post on X, Altman announced that forthcoming updates will enable the chatbot to exhibit more human-like behavior, but only if users opt for it, emphasizing that the changes are not driven by ‘usage maxxing.’ This move echoes Elon Musk’s xAI, which recently introduced sexually explicit chatbots to its Grok platform, potentially helping OpenAI attract more premium subscribers. However, it also raises concerns about the need for stricter regulations on AI companions. OpenAI has faced legal challenges, including a lawsuit from the parents of a teenager who tragically took his own life, alleging that the company’s parental controls were insufficient. Altman acknowledged that previous restrictions were implemented to address mental health concerns but stated that new tools now allow for safer relaxation of these constraints. Starting in December, OpenAI plans to introduce age-gating measures to ensure that adult content, such as erotica, is accessible only to verified adults. Critics argue that this decision underscores the necessity for enhanced federal and state-level oversight. Jenny Kim, a partner at Boies Schiller Flexner, questioned the effectiveness of OpenAI’s age-gating mechanisms, likening the company’s approach to using users as ‘guinea pigs.’ Meanwhile, a survey by the Centre for Democracy and Technology revealed that one in five students has engaged in romantic relationships with AI. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed a bill aimed at restricting AI chatbot access for children, emphasizing the importance of teaching adolescents to interact safely with AI. At the federal level, the FTC has initiated an inquiry into AI chatbots’ interactions with minors, and bipartisan legislation has been introduced in the Senate to classify AI chatbots as products, allowing for liability claims against developers. Altman’s announcement comes amid growing skepticism about the valuation of AI tech companies, as OpenAI continues to expand its revenue despite remaining unprofitable.
ChatGPT will soon allow erotica for verified adults, says OpenAI boss
