OpenAI’s Latest Image Creation Tool Now Accessible to All ChatGPT Users — Amid Continuing Debate

OpenAI has officially launched its new image generation feature for all ChatGPT and Sora users, whether they are on the free tier or have subscribed to ChatGPT Plus. CEO Sam Altman announced this on X (formerly Twitter) on April 1, initially causing some skepticism due to its association with April Fools’ Day. Nevertheless, the launch is authentic, and the image generator—driven by the GPT-4o model—is now available to everyone.

As of this writing, users can access the tool without needing a ChatGPT Plus subscription. However, Altman later explained in another X post that free-tier users will soon be limited to three image generations each day.

The image generation capability was first introduced on March 25 during a livestream led by Altman, demonstrating the tool’s features. Yet, the rollout quickly drew criticism, especially after a surge of AI-generated images emulating the distinctive style of Studio Ghibli began spreading online.

Critics on social media voiced concerns regarding potential copyright violations and ethical dilemmas, particularly given Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki’s well-known aversion to AI-generated art. The controversy sparked significant discussion, with many questioning the limits of creative expression in the era of generative AI.

In reaction to the backlash, OpenAI defended its stance, highlighting the significance of user freedom and creative expression. As reported by Mashable’s Cecily Mauran, Altman reiterated during the livestream and in subsequent posts that the objective is to enable users to “create what they desire.”

“Our aim is for the tool to avoid producing offensive material—unless users particularly request it, and even then, only within reasonable boundaries,” Altman stated in a post on X. “We support intellectual freedom and user control, yet we will continue to observe its usage closely and heed public feedback.”

Now that the tool is broadly accessible, OpenAI may encounter even more scrutiny as users explore its potential. The company’s effort to balance creative freedom with responsible AI practices is likely to stay a prominent subject in the coming months.

Whether this accessibility in AI image creation will foster greater innovation or generate further controversy remains to be determined.