OpenAI Ventures into AI Erotica

OpenAI, still striving for profitability, is now venturing into personalized adult content.

On Tuesday, CEO Sam Altman revealed that the popular AI model, ChatGPT, will soon offer a feature allowing “verified” adults to generate AI-created adult content. In simpler terms, this means porn.

Altman noted on social media, “We’ve made ChatGPT quite restrictive to ensure we’re careful with mental health. While this made it less enjoyable for many without issues, we prioritized getting it right given the seriousness of the topic.” He added that they’re now ready to roll out more features.

As Altman mentioned, “In December, as we fully implement age-gating and adhere to our principle of treating adult users like adults, we will permit even more, including erotica for verified adults.” It’s a curious strategy—when a company is burning cash and its valuation is questionable, why not dive into AI porn? What’s there to lose?

This update might be welcome news for adults who consume porn regularly, or for some tech-savvy teens looking to bypass age verification. However, I’m uncertain how effective that verification will be. I doubt it will resemble a fortress unbreachable by even the most skilled hackers.

Looking back at the rise of social media in the early 2010s, there was an initial hope that platforms like Facebook and Instagram would foster connections. Still, that optimism has faded. Instead, social media often contributes to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

I think AI might follow a similar trajectory. Promoted as a tool to enhance human capability, I’m not convinced it will live up to that promise. Instead, it might lead to a decline in critical thinking, increased illiteracy, and even unemployment for some. For others, it may feed into their worst impulses, perhaps encouraging reliance on digital portrayals rather than real connections.

It’s a bit troubling, honestly. I can’t say I’m surprised given Altman’s track record.