OpenAI has announced a delay in rolling out the image generation capability in ChatGPT for free-tier users, attributing this decision to a surge in demand. CEO Sam Altman emphasized the feature’s high popularity, stating that the postponement is essential for maintaining both system stability and performance.
This image generation capability, which is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4o model, enables users to generate images directly within the ChatGPT environment. The GPT-4o model improves text rendering abilities and employs an autoregressive technique for image creation, generating visuals sequentially from left to right and from top to bottom.
At present, the image generation feature is exclusively accessible to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team subscribers. Free-tier users will need to remain patient, as OpenAI has not released a specific timeframe for broader availability.
Since its launch, the feature has garnered significant attention, particularly for generating images inspired by renowned animators such as those from Studio Ghibli. This trend has gained traction on social media, where users share their AI-generated artworks. In light of concerns regarding artistic integrity and copyright complications, OpenAI has imposed restrictions on creating images that mimic the styles of contemporary artists. This measure aims to respect the rights of artists and contribute to ongoing conversations about AI’s impact on creative industries.
While the postponement may disappoint free-tier users, OpenAI’s reasoning is valid as it aims to address system demand and the ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content. Users are advised to keep an eye on official OpenAI updates for information about the feature’s future release.
Image Source: Ascannio / Shutterstock
