OpenAI has begun rolling out an age prediction feature on ChatGPT worldwide to determine whether an account is likely operated by a minor, as the company prepares to introduce adult content options on the platform.
In a statement on Tuesday, OpenAI said that when its age prediction model estimates an account may belong to someone under 18, ChatGPT will automatically apply additional safeguards designed to limit exposure to sensitive content. Users who are incorrectly flagged as minors will be able to regain full access by submitting a selfie through Persona, an identity verification service.
The feature will be introduced in the European Union in the coming weeks. OpenAI’s head of applications, Fidji Simo, said in December that an “adult mode” is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026, following earlier comments by CEO Sam Altman about allowing mature content for users who verify their age.
ChatGPT currently has around 800 million weekly active users. OpenAI has also begun showing advertisements to some users in the United States as it looks to diversify revenue streams.
The Microsoft-backed company reported that its annualised revenue surpassed $20 billion in 2025, up from $6 billion the previous year, driven largely by increased computing capacity and growing demand for its AI products.
