OpenAI has postponed the launch of an “adult mode” for ChatGPT, saying it will prioritise improvements to the platform’s performance and user experience before introducing the feature.
Chief executive Sam Altman had announced last year that the company planned to allow adult content on ChatGPT alongside age verification systems. However, the company now says the rollout will take longer as it focuses on updates that affect a broader group of users.
In a statement, OpenAI said it was pushing back the launch to concentrate on higher priority work, including improving the chatbot’s intelligence, personality, personalisation, and making the experience more proactive. The company said it still believes in the principle of treating adults like adults, but added that getting the experience right will require more time.
ChatGPT currently has more than 900 million users.
Altman had earlier declared a “code red” within the company to improve the chatbot amid growing competition from rivals, including Google and Anthropic.
OpenAI is meanwhile introducing age prediction tools designed to determine whether a user is under 18 years old. If a user is identified as underage, additional safety settings are applied to reduce exposure to graphic violence and sexual role play.
Separately, a senior OpenAI executive has resigned over the company’s agreement with the US Pentagon. Caitlin Kalinowski, head of hardware in OpenAI’s robotics division, said she stepped down due to concerns about potential mass surveillance of US citizens and the possibility of autonomous AI-controlled weapons.
OpenAI recently said it would amend its contract with the Pentagon to explicitly rule out the use of its technology for mass domestic surveillance. A company spokesperson said the agreement aims to support responsible national security uses of AI while maintaining clear limits, such as banning domestic surveillance and autonomous weapons.