OpenAI released its advanced AI image generation tool through free access to all users. On March 31, CEO Sam Altman posted on X that the ChatGPT-4o image generator became accessible to all free users. The paid user restriction on AI-generated image creation has been lifted so that all users can now use this feature, although free users must stick to three daily creations.
OpenAI’s servers faced significant stress from user surges that occurred because of the increasing popularity of the feature among Studio Ghibli-inspired image creators. Altman took to his March 27 post to joke about the servers experiencing strain. The tool shows fast performance even when connection problems arise occasionally. A user successfully created a ChatGPT logo image flying above New York City within a five-minute timeframe.
OpenAI advances its tool accessibility through this update as it faces market competition from Google, Microsoft, Anthropic, and Apple. The AI field continues to advance rapidly as Google released its Gemini 2.5 model during the previous week. The dominance of ChatGPT continues with its 500 million weekly users while competition in the market intensifies.
OpenAI provides Sora as a video generation tool, which remains restricted to subscribers who pay for the service. AI consultant Serena Huang identifies substantial opportunities within these AI tools. The CNET interview with Serena Huang revealed her perspective that AI image generation serves as a strong tool for productivity improvement and creative innovation.
Huang pointed out potential obstacles in his analysis, which encompassed copyright issues and environmental consequences as well as potential risks to creative job positions. Microsoft Copilot joins other platforms in the market, which will create an escalating competitive landscape.
Free users can experience AI-generated image capabilities but only through restricted quantity at this time.
