ChatGPT's AI Magic: Now Free Users Can Ghiblify Their Photos — But There's A Catch
OpenAI has implemented a strict cap on image generation for free users. Read to find out what it is.
OpenAI has finally extended ChatGPT’s AI image generation feature to free-tier users, a move that comes after initially restricting it to paid subscribers. However, free users will have to deal with a daily limit of three image generations due to overwhelming demand.
Ghibli-Style AI Art Now Available for Free Users
Although OpenAI has yet to make an official announcement, multiple free ChatGPT accounts have successfully generated images in the style of Japan’s beloved Studio Ghibli, indicating that the feature is now live. This marks a significant expansion of ChatGPT’s capabilities, which previously required a paid subscription for access to AI-generated artwork.
OpenAI rolled out this feature to Plus, Pro, and Team users globally on March 26. Soon after, social media was flooded with stunning AI-generated images mimicking the signature aesthetic of Studio Ghibli’s classic anime films. Fans eagerly transformed their real-life photos into whimsical Ghibli-esque scenes, embracing the dreamy, hand-drawn charm of the legendary Japanese animation studio.
Limited Access and Alternative AI Tools
Until now, free-tier users had to rely on alternative AI tools like xAI’s Grok or Google’s Gemini to create similar artwork. However, the quality often fell short of OpenAI’s advanced model, which delivers more detailed and expressive images.
With the feature now gradually rolling out to free users, it offers an opportunity for more people to experiment with AI-generated art, albeit with limitations. OpenAI has placed restrictions due to what CEO Sam Altman described as a GPU overload, with AI demand reaching unprecedented levels.
How to Create Ghibli-Style AI Images in ChatGPT
If you want to try your hand at generating Ghibli-style AI images, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the ChatGPT website or open the app.
- Click on the ‘+’ icon at the bottom left corner to upload your image.
- Type a prompt such as ‘Ghiblify this’ or ‘Turn this image into a Studio Ghibli theme.’
- ChatGPT will generate your anime-inspired artwork, which you can then download.
Free Users Face Daily Limits
Despite the excitement, OpenAI has implemented a strict cap on image generation for free users. While the company initially did not mention any restrictions, it later confirmed that free-tier users can only generate three AI images per day. Paid users also face certain limits, although they receive a higher allowance.
With AI art becoming increasingly popular, OpenAI’s decision to make this feature available to more users is a welcome step, but for those eager to create more than three images a day, upgrading to a paid plan might be the only way to keep the creativity flowing.
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