OpenAI Applications CEO says adult mode rollout in Q1FY26: All about the feature, age check, ad plans and more

OpenAI has confirmed that it will roll out a new “adult mode” feature for ChatGPT users in early 2026, aiming to give verified users access to more immersive and less restrictive AI interactions.

Talking about the launch during a tech fair TBPNFidji Simo, CEO of OpenAI Applications, said age verification is starting to roll out in some countries. OpenAI is taking a slow approach to ensure adult users are correctly identified, and adult mode will be unlocked through this verification process.

In his words, this new offering will follow the company’s principle of “treating adult users like adults.”

This announcement comes alongside the launch of the company’s latest model, the GPT-5.2; because OpenAI aims to improve the chatbot’s capabilities and personalization features in the face of increasing competition from Google’s Gemini 3, which has received strong criticism.

Will there be ads on ChatGPT soon?

When asked if ChatGPT would start showing ads on its platform, Simo did not comment on immediate plans but said it could happen in the future.

“People trust that ChatGPT has their back and will give them the best answer for their needs. Nothing we do can jeopardize that,” he said during the interview.

But he added, “If we decide to move into advertising at some point, we will do so in a way that is extremely respectful of people’s special relationship with ChatGPT.”

Simo also emphasized that ChatGPT aims to develop Large Language Models (LLMs) that ensure recommendations are based solely on what is “best” for users, uninfluenced by companies willing to pay for this visibility or people “gaming the system.”

What is ChatGPT’s ‘adult mode’

With the upcoming ‘adult mode’ feature on ChatGPT, the company aims to ensure that minors are effectively blocked from accessing adult content before the public launch. To achieve this, an age verification process was introduced.

While specific details about the feature remain limited, reports suggest the move could give adult users more freedom to speak openly while maintaining safeguards to prevent younger users from gaining access.

On the other hand, the age verification system currently being tested in select markets is designed to detect when a user is under 18 and apply stricter security filters. This will allow the platform to offer users age-appropriate content and ensure regulatory compliance.

Adult content is often restricted or “banned” for underage users on various online sites such as YouTube and TikTok through legal requirements and platform policies. This is intended to protect minors from harmful materials.