OpenAI announced on Tuesday the global rollout of an age prediction model for ChatGPT to identify users under 18 and automatically apply content protections in a move that presumably paves the way for the company’s planned adult content.
The artificial intelligence (AI) startup’s new system analyzes account-level and behavioral signals to estimate user age, including usage patterns, account age, typical activity times, and stated age information. When the model determines an account likely belongs to someone under 18, ChatGPT automatically implements safeguards to reduce exposure to sensitive material such as depictions of self-harm.
Users incorrectly flagged as minors can verify their age through Persona, an identity-verification service also used by platforms like Roblox. The system will expand to the European Union in coming weeks to comply with regional requirements.
The initiative comes as OpenAI faces mounting pressure over child safety. The Federal Trade Commission is investigating how the company’s AI chatbots may negatively impact children and teenagers, while OpenAI has been named in several wrongful death lawsuits, including one involving a teenage boy’s suicide.
OpenAI has responded with multiple safety measures in recent months. In August, the company announced parental controls, which launched the following month alongside development of the age prediction system. In October, OpenAI assembled a council of eight experts to provide guidance on AI’s effects on users’ mental health, emotions, and motivation.
The age prediction technology serves a dual purpose: Protecting minors while enabling OpenAI to introduce an adult mode for ChatGPT. Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, confirmed plans to launch adult mode during the first quarter of 2026, though the rollout depends on the age prediction model proving effective.
Rather than relying on traditional age verification pop-ups or self-reported information, OpenAI aims to develop more sophisticated behavioral analysis. The company argues that AI’s interactive nature demands greater responsibility than passive content warnings used by older internet services.
Adult mode may focus less on explicit content than on enabling discussions of topics currently restricted by content filters. Industry observers note that ChatGPT has faced criticism for being overly cautious, with users complaining about strict guidelines that limit conversations about human sexuality, relationships, and mental health.
The approach carries risks. Misidentifying users’ ages could create legal complications or business problems. OpenAI faces intense scrutiny as governments worldwide draft and enforce online age verification regulations. The company appears to view the feature as both a user experience enhancement and proactive compliance measure.
If successful, the adult mode could represent another industry precedent for OpenAI while potentially driving subscriptions to premium ChatGPT tiers. The company said it will continue refining the age prediction model’s accuracy over time.
