More than three years after ChatGPT's launch, OpenAI is shifting its focus from individual users to families, caregivers, and older adults.The company is hiring a dedicated product manager in San Francisco to develop family-centric experiences across its platforms.This move comes as ChatGPT's user base is aging, with 31% of global users aged 35+ in Q2 2026 compared to 26% a year earlier.Sensor Tower data shows a decline in younger users, while parents are increasingly adopting the tool.

Experts note this marks a significant shift in AI's role from productivity tools to household technologies, raising new trust and safety challenges.OpenAI has introduced parental controls, distress detection models, and a 'Trusted Contact' feature to address concerns.The hiring also aligns with broader efforts to explore AI's role in education and youth engagement.While ChatGPT is gaining traction among older users, it still lags behind competitors like Gemini in this demographic.

Industry analysts predict future developments will include family plans, child profiles, and enhanced safety measures as AI becomes a shared technology across generations.