OpenAI has unlocked its image-generation tool for all users, removing the paywall that once restricted access.
CEO Sam Altman confirmed the expansion in a post on X (formerly Twitter), expanding availability. However, the specifics are not yet known—while Altman previously hinted at a limit of three images per day for free users, the company has yet to confirm the exact cap.
Since its rollout, OpenAI’s image generator has seen a massive surge in usage. Altman, in a lighthearted comment, suggested that the demand was so intense it was “melting” the company’s GPUs.
The tool has gained traction for its ability to replicate the iconic art style of Japanese animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli, drawing attention from both enthusiasts and critics alike.
OpenAI touts its GPT-4o-powered image generator as an advanced tool capable of precisely following user prompts, accurately rendering text within images, and leveraging uploaded visuals for inspiration.
“These capabilities make it easier to create exactly the image you envision,” the company stated, positioning the tool as a breakthrough in AI-assisted creativity.
Despite its success, there are questions about OpenAI’s training data which includes copyrighted Ghibli-style artwork, a debate that reiterates discussions on AI and intellectual property.
Beyond copyright issues, there have been reports of users employing the tool to generate fake documents, including fabricated restaurant receipts.
OpenAI insists it is addressing potential misuse. A company spokesperson stated that all AI-generated images are embedded with metadata identifying them as ChatGPT outputs. “We take action against outputs that violate our policies,” the spokesperson added, stressing OpenAI’s stance on responsible AI usage.
Meanwhile, OpenAI has just closed one of the largest private funding rounds in tech history, raising $40 billion and securing a $300 billion valuation. The only private company valued higher is Elon Musk’s SpaceX at $350 billion.
The deal was led by SoftBank, which contributed $30 billion. Other major investors include Microsoft, Coatue, Altimeter, and Thrive. OpenAI plans to use the fresh capital to expand its computing infrastructure and push the frontiers of AI research even further.
However, the funding comes with conditions. SoftBank has structured its investment to allow for adjustments—if OpenAI fails to transition into a fully for-profit entity by the end of the year, its total investment could shrink to $20 billion.
Currently, OpenAI operates under a capped-profit model, limiting investor returns to a predetermined amount, with excess funds reinvested into research.
