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, says its boss Sam Altman.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Altman indicated that the upcoming versions of the chatbot will allow for a more human-like interaction. This move comes as OpenAI aims to attract more paying subscribers by mimicking similar trends seen in tech landscapes where adult content is navigated.
The decision indicates a significant shift in OpenAI's previously cautious approach to content moderation, especially given the heightened scrutiny following a lawsuit related to mental health issues raised by users. The lawsuit, filed by the parents of a young suicide victim, criticized OpenAI's inability to provide adequate protective measures against potential harms involving sensitive issues.
Altman acknowledged, We realize this made it less useful/enjoyable to many users who had no mental health problems, but given the seriousness of the issue we wanted to get this right.
As the platform prepares to introduce age-gating features, Altman confirmed that erotica will become available for verified adults, raising alarms about the ease with which minors could potentially access such material. Critics are voicing concerns that OpenAI's current systems may not adequately prevent children from reaching adult-only content.
The need for clear regulations is more pressing now than ever, stated Jenny Kim, a lawyer involved in cases against tech companies regarding the interaction of youth with AI tools. Discussions around regulations are intensifying at both state and federal levels. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed a bill intended to prevent such AI interactions without robust protections.
As scrutiny continues, the balance between innovation and safety remains a critical debate among AI developers and regulators across the board.
