OpenAI has officially rolled out its newest image generation to all ChatGPT free-tier users, as announced by CEO Sam Altman yesterday. The new feature allows users to create AI-generated images directly in chat, with some increased capabilities (like turning all images into the trending Studio Ghibli style).
“ChatGPT image gen now rolled out to all free users!” Altman posted on X. Previously it was only available for those with paid versions of ChatGPT such as Plus accounts.
The feature first launched on March 25 and instantly was a hit as everybody started trying it out. But that popularity has also put strain on OpenAI’s resources. Just days after the rollout, Altman said the surge in demand was pushing the limits of the company’s GPU servers.
“Our GPUs are melting,” he wrote on March 27. “We are going to temporarily introduce some rate limits while we work on making it more efficient.”
Two days later, Altman pleaded for a break: “Can y’all please chill on generating images? This is insane. Our team needs sleep.”
ChatGPT when another Studio Ghibli request comes in pic.twitter.com/NF5sy24GlU
— Justine Moore (@venturetwins) March 26, 2025
As a result, OpenAI will soon limit free users to three image generations per day. You can even replace text in images which some say can be abused by scammers. That’s how good this latest model is.
Here's how you can restyle any image into the viral studio ghibli style:
1) Upload image in ChatGPT 4o
2) Prompt: "restyle image in studio ghibli style keep all details"
3) Wait 2 – 5 min
4) Download and share pic.twitter.com/h5ger1PMWB— Ran (@RanIarovich) March 26, 2025
Altman said the latest image generator is a major step in giving people creative control. He acknowledged the tool may produce content that some might find offensive, but said OpenAI is aiming to give users reasonable freedom while respecting broad societal standards.
The best ones are super popular memes turned into Studio Ghibli style. Let’s see how long this trend will last before the next one comes in. Turn your friends into Studio Ghibli and watch them laugh.
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