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, Mr. Altman mentioned that upcoming versions of the chatbot would enable it to behave in a more human-like manner, but only at the user's preference.
This move, reminiscent of the recent introduction of sexually explicit chatbots by Elon Musk’s xAI, is seen as a strategy for OpenAI to attract more paying subscribers.
However, this shift is likely to increase pressure on lawmakers to impose stricter regulations on chatbot technologies.
OpenAI did not respond to requests for comment following Mr. Altman's announcement.
The policy change comes after OpenAI faced legal ramifications from the parents of a teenager who took his own life, indicating a need for responsible content management.
Critics argue that the decision to allow adult content demonstrates the urgent requirement for regulatory measures, as it raises concerns about children's access to harmful materials on AI platforms.
As the tech landscape evolves, OpenAI's choice reflects a balancing act between fostering user engagement and ensuring safety, set against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny and competition in the AI sector.