OpenAI Expands Teens ChatGPT With Memory Controls

OpenAI expanded ChatGPT for Teens (ages 13 to 17) with stronger protections and a focus on learning support, restricting intimate or harmful content. The Android beta introduced under the Sunspot project adds per-chat memory toggles and a save-to-history option, giving users granular control over what each conversation remembers. The teen mode continues to guide problem-solving through Study Mode rather than providing direct answers, and aims to enhance privacy and data control while safeguards may not fully mitigate risks or dependence. Separately, August 2026 saw login and authentication outages affecting signups, sign-ins, and some API endpoints, with OpenAI providing status updates and noting overall high uptime. The teen-focused rollout occurs alongside ongoing safety scrutiny and competitive pressure in the AI space. Experts remain cautious about the effectiveness of safeguards for teens using AI for learning and social interaction.