OpenAI Expands Image Generation Access to All Users Amidst High Demand and Concerns
OpenAI has announced an expansion of access to its advanced image-generation tool, which was previously exclusive to paying subscribers, making it available for all users. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), CEO Sam Altman shared the news, indicating that while the precise number of images non-paying users can generate remains uncertain, there may be a limit of three images per day.
“ChatGPT image generation is now available for all free users!” Altman declared on Tuesday.
Since its launch, the image generation tool has experienced immense popularity, with Altman humorously noting that the surge in demand has been so significant that it was causing the company’s GPUs to “melt.” The tool has garnered particular attention for its ability to transform images into a unique art style reminiscent of the renowned Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli.
OpenAI reports that its GPT-4o image generation model excels in accurately rendering text, closely adhering to prompts, and utilizing its extensive knowledge base and chat context—which includes transforming uploaded images or using them as visual inspiration. The company emphasized that these features enhance users’ ability to accurately envision their desired images, fostering more effective visual communication and advancing image generation into a more precise, practical tool.
However, the introduction of this tool has raised concerns over potential misuse. Critics have questioned whether OpenAI’s training data included copyrighted Ghibli-style artwork, while others highlighted instances of the generator being used to create fraudulent documents, like fake restaurant receipts. In response, an OpenAI spokesperson noted that all AI-generated images contain metadata that identifies ChatGPT as their source and assured that the company actively addresses outputs that breach its usage policies.
In an exciting development for the company, OpenAI has successfully closed the largest private technology funding round, securing a remarkable $40 billion investment, thereby valuing the ChatGPT developer at $300 billion alongside leading private tech firms. Only SpaceX, valued at $350 billion, surpasses OpenAI’s valuation, while it now stands on equal footing with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, as reported by CB Insights.
This funding round, led by Japan’s SoftBank with a substantial $30 billion investment, also includes significant contributions from major investors such as Microsoft, Coatue, Altimeter, and Thrive. OpenAI has announced plans to utilize the newly acquired capital to further advance AI research and expand its computing infrastructure.
According to CNBC, approximately $18 billion of the raised funds is expected to support Stargate, OpenAI s joint venture with SoftBank and Oracle, which was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump in January. While this financing marks a significant achievement for OpenAI, it comes with stipulations; SoftBank has revealed that its total investment could potentially drop to as low as $20 billion unless OpenAI restructures into a for-profit entity by December 31, allowing for unlimited profits to be distributed to investors. This would replace the cap profit structure established in 2019, which limited investor returns to a certain level with any excess being reinvested into research.
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