OpenAI has made its ChatGPT 4o image-generator tool accessible to everyone. In a post on X on March 31, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced that the AI-powered image generation feature has "now rolled out to all free users!"

AI-Generated Images for All

Previously available only to paying subscribers, the image-generation tool has surged in popularity, especially for creating images in the style of Studio Ghibli animation. The overwhelming demand even led Altman to remark that "our servers are melting" in response to the influx of users.

While the feature is now free, non-paying users are limited to generating three images per day. Those subscribed to ChatGPT Plus for $20 a month or Pro for $200 annually enjoy unlimited access.

AI Competition Heats Up

The move to make image generation free is part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to attract more users in the increasingly competitive AI landscape. Major tech players, including Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Anthropic, are continuously advancing their AI models. Just last week, Google introduced Gemini 2.5, its latest AI reasoning model.

ChatGPT is currently estimated to have around 500 million weekly users, but competitors are steadily gaining traction. As AI models evolve, they are not only enhancing problem-solving abilities but also expanding into creative fields, such as image and video generation. OpenAI's video tool, Sora, remains exclusive to paid users for now.

The Fun & Challenges of AI Image Generation

AI consultant and economist Serena H. Huang acknowledges the growing appeal of AI-generated images, citing their potential for increased productivity and creative marketing applications. "AI image generation is a powerful catalyst for enhanced productivity and innovation," she told CNET. "It speeds up content creation, fosters more engaging communication, and can even convert AI skeptics into regular users."

However, Huang also warns of challenges ahead, including copyright concerns, the high energy demands of AI, and its potential impact on creative industries, such as job displacement for designers and artists.

As competition intensifies, companies like Microsoft and Google are expected to enhance their image-generation capabilities, pushing the boundaries of AI creativity even further.