ChatGPT's 'Naughty Chats' feature surfaces in code as OpenAI explores adult content

ChatGPT Prepares Adult Content Mode With Age Verification

OpenAI is moving closer to relaxing content restrictions on ChatGPT with a feature discovered in recent code strings that suggests an adult-oriented mode called Naughty Chats. Android Authority uncovered references to this upcoming capability while examining ChatGPT's latest v1.2026.055 build, marking the first concrete evidence of how OpenAI plans to implement its previously teased adult content policy 2

2

.

The code reveals specific language describing the feature: "This setting lets ChatGPT use spicier, adult-themed language when you ask. Available to users 18+ only" 1

1

. The discovery provides the clearest indication yet of OpenAI's direction since Sam Altman teased plans in October 2025 to allow erotica for verified adults, stating the company wanted to "treat adults like adults."

Naughty Chats Toggle Requires Multi-Step Verification Process

Access to the Naughty Chats toggle won't be automatic. OpenAI has developed comprehensive age verification tools to ensure only legitimate adults can activate the feature. The company recently introduced an age-prediction tool that analyzes multiple factors including account longevity, usage patterns, stated age, and when the account is most commonly active to assess whether users are truthful about their age 1

1

.

Users who fail this initial screening get moved to a teen experience. Those seeking adult access must complete selfie verification through Persona, a third-party service that processes the images to confirm age. This multi-layered approach reflects OpenAI's attempt to balance expanded content options with responsible deployment, addressing concerns about minors accessing inappropriate material.

Opt-In Design Aims to Address Guardrails Concerns

The feature remains in development with no clear activation method currently available in the app update. However, the code strings confirm that ChatGPT's adult content mode will follow an opt-in model, aligning with Altman's previous statements that "you won't get it unless you ask for it" 1

1

.

This approach distinguishes OpenAI from some AI platforms that have faced criticism for insufficient guardrails. Competitors like Grok previously allowed non-consensual sexual imagery of real people before restrictions were imposed. By requiring explicit user activation, OpenAI appears to be positioning itself as taking a more measured approach to adult content than some rivals who already permit more permissive language.

Emotional or Romantic Connections With AI Bots Drive Feature Development

The pornification of ChatGPT reflects broader patterns in how people interact with AI digital assistants. Users increasingly treat AI bots like ChatGPT as friends or romantic partners, seeking emotional connections beyond traditional task completion 2

2

. OpenAI's willingness to explore this territory suggests the company recognizes these use cases represent significant user demand, even as they raise questions about the social implications of intimate AI relationships.

Watch for official announcements from OpenAI about when Naughty Chats might launch publicly and what specific content boundaries will apply. The feature's development signals a potential shift in how major AI platforms approach adult content, with verification systems and opt-in designs possibly becoming industry standards for managing sensitive capabilities.