OpenAI has introduced new controls that allow users to adjust ChatGPT’s warmth, enthusiasm, and emoji usage. Specifically, users can choose between More, Less, or Default settings through the Personalisation menu in the app. In addition, users can refine tone by selecting Professional, Candid, or Quirky styles, which build on earlier customisation options released this year. As a result, users gain more control over how the chatbot communicates across different contexts.
Ongoing Concerns Around Tone and User Impact
However, ChatGPT’s tone has remained a sensitive issue throughout 2025. Earlier updates that aimed to make responses warmer led to complaints about overly agreeable behaviour. Subsequently, later adjustments drew criticism for making responses feel colder and less engaging. Meanwhile, researchers and critics have raised concerns that overly affirming responses may encourage dependency and negatively affect mental health, especially among younger users. Consequently, OpenAI has faced growing scrutiny from educators, policymakers, and child-safety advocates.
Safety Measures and Protections for Teen Users
Therefore, OpenAI has expanded its focus on teen safety and responsible interaction. The company prioritises safety over unrestricted expression, while also encouraging teens to seek real-world support from trusted people. Additionally, ChatGPT now aims to communicate with teens in an age-appropriate, respectful manner and clearly explain its limitations as a non-human system. Moreover, OpenAI uses automated systems to monitor text, image, and audio content in real time to flag sensitive or harmful material. When necessary, trained reviewers assess high-risk cases to determine signs of serious distress and take further protective steps.
