OpenAI Suspends ChatGPT's Erotic Mode Under Pressure

OpenAI Halts ChatGPT's Erotic Mode Amid Competitive Pressure

OpenAI, one of the leaders in artificial intelligence, has recently decided to pause a controversial project: the development of an erotic mode for its famous chatbot, ChatGPT. This decision was reported by the Financial Times, which specified that the company has chosen to suspend this project "indefinitely."

A Controversial Project

The idea of an "adult mode" for ChatGPT was initially proposed by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, last October. However, this proposal quickly sparked mixed reactions. Technology watchdog groups as well as some OpenAI employees expressed their concerns. During a meeting in January with the company's executives and its advisory board, one advisor even warned against the risk of creating a "sexy suicide coach," according to the Wall Street Journal.

Delays and Lack of Timeline

In light of these criticisms, the launch of this feature has been postponed multiple times. Now, according to the Financial Times, there is no longer a timeline for its release. When questioned by TechCrunch, a spokesperson for OpenAI simply stated that the company had "nothing else to add" on the subject.

A Strategic Refocus

This project is not the only one the company has recently decided to set aside. OpenAI also announced that it is deprioritizing Instant Checkout, a ChatGPT feature that allowed users to purchase items directly through the chatbot. Additionally, the company surprised many by shutting down Sora, its AI video generator, which was criticized for contributing to the proliferation of low-quality content on the Internet.

A Change in Direction

These decisions follow a report from the Wall Street Journal indicating that OpenAI is undergoing a "major strategic shift" to focus on its core priorities: professional users and developers. This reorientation appears to be a response to the increasing pressure exerted by Anthropic, a competitor that has recently launched several coding and business tools, thereby attracting numerous clients.

A Major Contract with the Pentagon

Meanwhile, OpenAI and Anthropic are competing for lucrative contracts with the Pentagon. OpenAI recently announced that it has secured a $200 million agreement with the Department of Defense, while Anthropic is currently engaged in a legal battle with the agency.

A New Direction for AI

These recent developments indicate that the future of artificial intelligence may be moving away from playful or controversial applications to focus more on professional and strategic uses, particularly in the fields of business and defense.