ChatGPT’s long-rumored Adult Mode now has a launch window

OpenAI has been hinting for a while that ChatGPT would eventually loosen its strict content rules for adult users. Now, the company has finally put a timeline on it. According to OpenAI, ChatGPT’s much-discussed “Adult Mode” is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026.

The update was revealed during a recent briefing on the GPT-5.2 model, where Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, shared new details about how and when the feature will arrive. 

For years, ChatGPT has been criticized for being overly restrictive, especially when it comes to mature topics, sexuality, or adult-oriented conversations. While those guardrails were designed to keep users safe, many adults have complained that the chatbot felt “less useful” or even “less enjoyable” because of them. 

Adult Mode will change that by allowing more open, mature conversations, including erotica and less filtered language, for verified adults. But OpenAI says the biggest challenge isn’t the content itself, it’s making sure minors don’t access it.

Age verification is the real hurdle

Before Adult Mode can go live, OpenAI needs a reliable way to tell whether a user is under 18. Simo stressed that the company’s top priority is accuracy, especially avoiding a situation where adults are mistakenly flagged as teenagers, or worse, minors slip through the system.

Right now, OpenAI is in the early testing phase of its age prediction model. The system uses AI to analyze user behavior and estimate age, rather than relying only on simple “Are you 18?” checkboxes. According to Simo, testing is already underway in select countries to see how well the system identifies teenage users while minimizing false positives for adults.

In some regions, OpenAI may also introduce government ID verification through third-party services, adding an extra layer of protection where required by law.

Opt-in, not automatic

Importantly, Adult Mode won’t be switched on by default. Even after the feature launches, users will need to explicitly opt in and pass the age verification process to unlock it. Teen users, meanwhile, will remain under stricter safety rules and content limitations.

OpenAI says this cautious approach is necessary given the risks involved. Traditional age verification systems have often failed to stop minors from accessing explicit content online, and the company is trying to avoid repeating those mistakes.

If everything goes according to plan, ChatGPT will have Adult Mode in early 2026. We hope OpenAI takes the necessary steps to ensure that it’s used in the way it should be.

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