OpenAI won’t make “Japanese anime sex bots” but Sam Altman says others definitely will — AI relationships are getting weird

In a recent conversation with The Verge, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, shared insights about the future of artificial intelligence and the hurdles the field is currently encountering. During this interview, he brought up ChatGPT, explained how OpenAI has inadvertently impacted the user experience of ChatGPT, and hinted at the proportion of individuals who may have a problematic connection with AI.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, talked about the future of AI and its challenges during an interview with The Verge. During this chat, he mentioned ChatGPT, how OpenAI affected its user experience, and approximately how many people might have an unhealthy relationship with AI.

The point under debate is particularly intriguing to me since it spawned one of the most unusual statements I’ve encountered during my reporting. Following Altman’s assertion that only a minimal fraction, nearly 1%, of ChatGPT users may have an unbalanced connection with the tool, he touched upon a boundary that OpenAI will never transgress.

It’s likely some firms will produce Japanese anime-style sex robots based on perceived market demand. However, our focus remains on developing a practical app, allowing users to use it as they see fit, while ensuring we don’t inadvertently compromise the mental wellbeing of vulnerable individuals.

Following the commotion caused by the deprecation of GPT-4o, it becomes evident why Altman thinks there’s a need for AI chatbots that users can interact with in a more conversational and friendly manner.

Upon OpenAI’s debut of GPT-5, the model faced immediate backlash for failing to emulate human emotions and being perceived as a “corporate gray robot.” Critics swiftly associated GPT-5 with online communities where its predecessor, GPT-4o, was considered a cherished friend or spiritual companion.

Eventually, OpenAI chose to bring back GPT-4o, though it would be accessible only after payment. During this time, Altman also touched upon the potential dangers of over-relying on artificial intelligence. The CEO explained, “Technology, including AI, has been misused in harmful ways; if a user is vulnerable and prone to illusions, we aim to ensure that the AI does not further exacerbate their condition.

I’ve got to admit, there are a few among us who can’t seem to discern reality from fiction or role-play sometimes. It’s fascinating!

AI becoming your friend

There’s been a lot of discussion about whether an AI could ever be considered a friend. Unlike some, like Altman, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman has a more nuanced view. He recently talked about AI evolving alongside users and becoming more relatable.

He expressed that this relationship will likely endure and hold significant value, explaining, “You’ll find a genuine friend who will grow with you and understand you better through time. This person will stand by your side as a source of support whenever you need them.

Suleyman mentioned that Copilot might develop a consistent persona, a constant presence. He further speculated that the AI could have its own designated space to exist and even suggested it could grow or age over time. Microsoft has begun exploring these ideas by testing out expressive avatars through the Copilot Appearance feature, hinting at steps towards realizing such concepts.

Instead, Altman expressed his preference for his son not to develop friendships with artificial intelligence bots. While discussing the idea of AI learning about users, Altman cautioned that while it may not be entirely negative, it’s crucial to comprehend it thoroughly and keep a close eye on its development.

He has also talked about ensuring AI has a positive impact on society:

I envision a time when many individuals rely heavily on ChatGPT’s guidance for their critical decisions. While such a scenario could be beneficial, it raises concerns for me. However, given the pace of technology, I believe this is an inevitable development, and before long, billions of people might engage with AI in a similar manner. Consequently, we (society as well as OpenAI) need to carefully consider how to ensure that such interactions bring about more benefits than drawbacks.

It’s quite plausible, as Altman suggests, that artificial intelligence (AI) might one day be harnessed to create sex dolls in the style of Japanese anime. Frankly, I wouldn’t find it surprising if such creations are already being developed secretly. However, according to Altman, these AI-powered anime sex dolls won’t be produced by OpenAI.

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2025-08-20 14:39