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ChatGPT’s Image Generation Now Free: OpenAI Expands Access to Popular AI Art Tool

OpenAI extends ChatGPT's image generation feature to free users, allowing limited daily access. The popular AI tool, known for creating Studio Ghibli-style art, was previously exclusive to paid subscribers. This expansion follows OpenAI's recent $40 billion funding round.

Staff Editor April 1, 2025

OpenAI Expands ChatGPT Image Generator Access to Free Users

OpenAI has announced that its popular ChatGPT image generator, known for creating art reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s style, is now available to all users, including those on the free tier. The expansion comes after an initial period where the feature was exclusive to paid subscribers.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, confirmed the update’s availability to free users via a post on the social media platform X. However, free users will have limited access to the image generation feature, with reports suggesting a daily allowance of three image generations.

The image generation capability is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4o model and was initially launched on March 25th. The company had planned to roll out the feature across all subscription tiers, including free users, but high demand led to a temporary delay in the free tier rollout. Altman humorously acknowledged the strain on GPUs caused by the overwhelming interest.

The popularity of the image generator has resulted in a significant surge in new users, with OpenAI reporting that at one point, a million new users joined in a single hour. This rapid growth underscores the widespread interest in AI-driven art and image generation technologies.

In related news, OpenAI recently achieved a major financial milestone, completing a funding round that raised $40 billion. This represents the largest funding round ever for a private tech company, bringing OpenAI’s valuation to $300 billion. The substantial investment reflects strong investor confidence in OpenAI’s technology and market potential.

As AI-powered image generation continues to captivate users worldwide, OpenAI’s latest move to expand access to its ChatGPT image generator marks a significant step in democratizing this technology.