OpenAI’s new image generator, powered by its cutting-edge GPT-4o model, is now accessible to all ChatGPT users, including those on the free tier. CEO Sam Altman confirmed the rollout in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), marking a major expansion of OpenAI’s AI-powered image generation capabilities.
Previously, this feature was exclusive to paying users, but with the latest update, anyone can now generate AI images through ChatGPT. While OpenAI has not specified how many images free-tier users can create daily, Altman previously suggested a limit of three images per day.
Instant Demand Overwhelms OpenAI’s Servers
Since its initial release, OpenAI’s image generator has seen a massive surge in demand. Altman humorously noted that the company’s GPUs were “melting” due to the overwhelming number of requests from users eager to test the tool.
Despite its popularity, the image generator has sparked several controversies, including:
- AI-generated fake receipts, which could be exploited for fraud.
- Images mimicking copyrighted art styles, particularly those resembling the works of Studio Ghibli.
- Concerns over training data, as users question whether OpenAI’s model was trained on protected artwork.
Fake Receipts and AI Ethics Concerns
Among the more controversial uses of ChatGPT’s image generator is its ability to create realistic fake receipts. Users have already demonstrated how the tool can be misused to generate restaurant bills and expense receipts, raising fraud-related concerns.
In response, an OpenAI spokesperson told TechCrunch that all AI-generated images contain metadata indicating their origin. The company also stated that it monitors user activity and takes action if any generated content violates its guidelines.
However, critics argue that fraudsters could easily bypass these safeguards by editing the metadata or making minor modifications to AI-generated receipts. This has raised alarms in financial and business sectors about potential misuse.
Copyright Issues: The Studio Ghibli Controversy
Another major issue surrounding OpenAI’s image generator is its ability to replicate famous art styles, particularly that of Japanese animation giant Studio Ghibli.
Users have widely shared AI-generated images that closely resemble the distinct visual aesthetic of Ghibli films, leading to discussions about copyright infringement and ethical AI usage. While OpenAI has not confirmed whether its model was trained on copyrighted works, the striking similarities have sparked debates on whether AI-generated art should be regulated.
OpenAI Hits Major Milestones: $40 Billion Raised & 500M Users
Amid the excitement and controversy surrounding its new image generator, OpenAI also announced two major milestones:
- $40 billion in new funding – The company raised a staggering $40 billion in a round led by SoftBank, valuing OpenAI at a massive $300 billion.
- 500 million weekly active users – ChatGPT has now reached an impressive 500 million weekly users, with 700 million monthly active users, solidifying its place as a dominant force in AI.
The Future of AI Image Generation
As AI-powered image generation becomes more accessible, the challenges of AI ethics, copyright, and fraud prevention will continue to grow. OpenAI’s GPT-4o model is undeniably powerful, but its widespread availability has raised important questions about how AI tools should be regulated and monitored.
While OpenAI has implemented metadata tracking and content moderation, experts warn that bad actors may still find ways to exploit AI-generated images. Moving forward, the company—and the AI industry as a whole—will need to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility.
With AI-generated images now in the hands of millions, the world is watching to see how OpenAI navigates the challenges ahead.