Mashable: ChatGPT’s much awaited Adult mode now has a launch date. OpenAI has now confirmed that the feature will make its way in the first quarter of 2026.

The announcement was made during a briefing on the GPT‑5.2 model, where Fidji Simo, CEO of Applications at OpenAI, shared details about how the feature will work and why it marks a major shift in the company’s philosophy. What is ChatGPT Adult Mode? ChatGPT’s Adult Mode is designed to loosen long-standing restrictions on mature content. For years, the chatbot has been criticized for being overly cautious, especially around topics of sexuality, adult conversations, or explicit language.

While these guardrails were intended to protect users, many adults complained that the chatbot felt “less useful” or even “less enjoyable.” With Adult Mode, verified adult users will be able to engage in more open conversations, including erotica and less filtered language. OpenAI says the change reflects a principle of “treating adult users like adults.” Importantly, the feature will be opt-in only — meaning it won’t be enabled by default. Users will need to explicitly request access and pass verification before unlocking it. Age Verification Hurdle The biggest challenge for OpenAI is to ensure that minors don’t get access to Adult Mode.

Traditional age checks, such as simple “Are you 18?” prompts have been proven unreliable. To address this, OpenAI is testing a new age prediction model that uses AI to analyze user behavior and estimate age. Early trials are already underway in select countries. In some regions, the company may also require government ID verification through third-party services, adding an extra layer of protection where laws demand it.

Simo emphasized that accuracy here is very critical to avoid situations where adults are mistakenly flagged as teenagers, or worse, minors slip through undetected. OpenAI will finally let adults have open conversations after years of debate over the chatbot’s restrictive nature. CEO Sam Altman admitted earlier models were deliberately conservative to prevent mental health risks. However, he believes that new safeguards in GPT‑5.2, including a behavioral router that detects concerning patterns, allows the company to safely relax rules.