OpenAI’s Image Generator Now Free for All Users

OpenAI’s image generation tool, previously reserved for paying users, is now available to everyone using ChatGPT. Powered by the advanced GPT-4o model, the tool enables users to create AI-generated images—though free-tier usage appears to be limited. CEO Sam Altman announced the rollout on X, sharing that the feature had already sparked overwhelming demand, pushing OpenAI’s GPU infrastructure to the limit. While the feature has taken off, it’s also stirred up controversy over potential copyright issues and misuse, including the creation of fake receipts. The news comes as OpenAI secures $40 billion in funding from SoftBank, valuing the company at a staggering $300 billion.

Key Points:

OpenAI’s image generator, built on GPT-4o, is now accessible to all ChatGPT users.
Previously exclusive to paid users, the feature may now be limited to three images daily for free-tier users.
The tool gained rapid popularity post-launch and was used to mimic styles like Studio Ghibli’s, sparking copyright concerns.
Some users have misused it to create fake images, including receipts.
OpenAI embeds metadata into all generated images and enforces content guidelines.
The company announced a $40 billion funding round led by SoftBank, boosting its valuation to $300 billion.
ChatGPT now has 500 million weekly active users and 700 million monthly active users.

Key Quotes:

“GPUs were melting,” said CEO Sam Altman, referring to the surge in demand after the image generator launched.
On misuse, an OpenAI spokesperson clarified, “All these images have metadata indicating that ChatGPT generated them,” and added that the company “takes actions” when its guidelines are violated.

Implications: The expansion of OpenAI’s image generation tool to free users marks a significant moment in the democratization of advanced AI tools. While it offers creative opportunities to a broader user base, it also intensifies scrutiny over ethical and legal boundaries in AI-generated content. OpenAI’s record-breaking valuation and skyrocketing user base reinforce its dominant position in the AI space, but the company will need to stay vigilant as demand and misuse continue to grow.

Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/31/openais-new-image-generator-is-now-available-to-all-users/