OpenAI has delayed the rollout of ChatGPT's adult mode for the second time and has not provided a new launch date. An OpenAI spokesperson told Axios that the company postponed the release due to engineers focusing on higher priority tasks.

The adult mode was first announced by CEO Sam Altman in October 2025, with an initial target set for December 2025. However, this timeframe has passed without a release.

Adult Mode Still Planned, But No New Launch Date

OpenAI previously stated that the adult mode would allow the chatbot to produce more mature or explicit content, including erotic and other adult-themed conversations. However, the company has confirmed that this feature has now been postponed to a "later date." An updated launch window has not yet been announced.

The OpenAI spokesperson indicated that the company still supports the idea of providing more flexible content options for adults but wants to ensure that the experience works correctly.

The spokesperson identified three priority areas at the moment: intelligence upgrades, personality adjustments, and a more proactive response style from ChatGPT. We still believe in treating adults like adults, but getting the experience right will take more time, the spokesperson said.

Age Verification Remains a Key Challenge

One of the technical barriers to the adult mode is ensuring that only verified adults can access it. OpenAI had previously indicated that this feature would require age verification for users over 18, but early tests revealed issues with the detection system.

It is believed that improving this verification process is one of the reasons for the launch delay.

Launch Comes Amid Broader AI Discussions

The delay occurs amid increasing discussions about AI safety and ethics. OpenAI has faced criticism recently over its partnerships with government agencies and the potential use of AI in surveillance or military applications.

The company has also experienced internal disputes, such as the departure of senior employees concerned about AI policies. Due to these ongoing discussions, OpenAI may be cautious about introducing a feature that could lead to further debates.

No Approved Launch Date for Adult Mode

OpenAI has not provided information on when developments will resume or when a release might be planned. The latest ChatGPT update was the GPT-5.4 Thinking model, released a few days ago, focusing on complex reasoning tasks.

The delay of the adult mode comes during a review period for OpenAI. The company announced a deal with the U.S. military, which has been a target of criticism due to concerns over surveillance and autonomous weapon applications.

Following this announcement, Caitlin Kalinowski, head of OpenAI's robotics department, resigned. Some earlier employee departures also expressed concerns about the company's security policies. OpenAI has not commented on whether the current discussions have affected the timeline for the adult mode.