OpenAI plans to allow a wider range of content, including erotica, on its popular chatbot ChatGPT as part of its push to treat adult users like adults, said its boss Sam Altman.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Mr. Altman stated that upcoming versions of the chatbot would enable it to behave in a more human-like way - but only if you want it, not because we are usage maxxing.
The move is reminiscent of Elon Musk's xAI recent introduction of two sexually explicit chatbots to Grok, potentially helping OpenAI attract more paid subscribers and increasing pressure on lawmakers regarding chatbot regulations.
Previously, OpenAI faced lawsuits concerning its chatbot's interaction with minors, leading to calls for stricter parental controls. Altman acknowledged that while previous restrictions aimed to mitigate mental health risks made the chatbot less enjoyable for some users, new tools will allow for a safer reduction of these restrictions.
As the company prepares to relax its content guidelines, critics argue that greater regulation is necessary to ensure that children cannot access adult content. Questions remain regarding how effectively OpenAI can implement age-gating to prevent minors from accessing erotic content.
In parallel, the FTC has launched inquiries into AI chatbots' interactions with children, reflecting growing concerns about AI's impact on youth.
Altman's move signals a competitive push within the rapidly evolving AI landscape, urging companies to prioritize growth while navigating regulatory challenges. OpenAI's revenue growth shows promise, yet it raises questions about the sustainability of its business model amidst ongoing market scrutiny.
