OpenAI delays rollout of ChatGPT's image generator to free users

Engadget - Mar 27th, 2025
Open on Engadget

OpenAI's newly launched image generation feature within ChatGPT has garnered immense popularity, exceeding the company's already high expectations. This surge in interest has led to a delay in its availability for free-tier users, as announced by CEO Sam Altman. The feature, which allows users to create images directly in ChatGPT, is currently accessible only to Plus, Pro, and Team subscribers. Users have enthusiastically embraced the feature, sparking trends such as converting existing photos into Studio Ghibli-style illustrations, which have proliferated across social media platforms.

The trend of Ghibli-fied images has attracted significant attention, even prompting Altman to humorously adopt a Ghibli-style avatar on X/Twitter. Despite the excitement, there's no clear timeline for when free-tier users will gain access to the image generator. The delay highlights both the feature's instant popularity and the challenge of scaling such offerings to a larger audience. While Ghibli creator Hayao Miyazaki has previously expressed disapproval of AI-powered animations, this hasn't deterred users from experimenting with the technology, underlining the broader implications of AI in creative fields.

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RATING

6.6
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and clear overview of OpenAI's decision to delay the rollout of ChatGPT's image generation feature for free users due to high demand. It effectively captures the interest of readers by discussing a popular new feature and its cultural impact. However, the article could benefit from a more balanced perspective by including additional viewpoints and expert opinions. The reliance on a single source limits the depth of the reporting, and the lack of transparency in methodology and data supporting the claims of popularity is a notable weakness. Despite these limitations, the article remains relevant and engaging, appealing to readers interested in AI advancements and digital culture.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article accurately reports that OpenAI has delayed the rollout of ChatGPT's image generation feature to free users due to high demand. This claim is supported by statements attributed to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. However, the article does not provide specific metrics or data to substantiate the claim of unexpected popularity, which would enhance its verifiability. The mention of the feature being available to Plus, Pro, and Team users aligns with the factual situation, but the lack of a timeline for free users is a point that could benefit from further clarification. The story also introduces a cultural reference to Studio Ghibli-style illustrations, which, while engaging, could use additional support or examples to verify its prevalence.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the delay in feature rollout and the popularity of the image generation capability. It presents a single perspective, largely that of OpenAI and its CEO, without exploring other viewpoints, such as those of users or industry experts. This creates a somewhat unbalanced narrative that may overlook potential criticisms or alternative insights into the feature's delay. Additionally, while it mentions a cultural trend, it does not delve into the implications or opinions from the Studio Ghibli community, which could provide a more rounded view.

8
Clarity

The article is generally well-written and clear, with a logical flow from the introduction of the feature to the discussion of its popularity and subsequent delay. The language is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand the main points. However, the inclusion of cultural references, such as Studio Ghibli-style illustrations, could be better integrated with more context or examples to enhance comprehension. Overall, the article maintains a neutral tone and presents information in a coherent manner.

7
Source quality

The primary source of information in the article is OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who is a credible and authoritative figure regarding the company's developments. However, the article does not cite any additional sources or experts, which could enhance the depth and reliability of the reporting. The reliance on a single source limits the diversity of perspectives and may affect the impartiality of the information presented. The inclusion of a direct quote from Altman does lend credibility to the factual claims made.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in explaining the methodology behind the claims of high demand and popularity. There is no disclosure of how these conclusions were reached or any data supporting them. The absence of a timeline for the feature's availability to free users is noted, but not sufficiently explained. Additionally, the article does not address any potential conflicts of interest that might influence the reporting, such as financial ties or partnerships between the publication and OpenAI.

Sources

  1. https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/25/chatgpts-image-generation-feature-gets-an-upgrade/
  2. https://dev.ua/en/news/openai-1743056184
  3. https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/ai-image-video/i-just-went-hands-on-with-chatgpt-4os-enhanced-image-generator-and-i-cant-believe-this-is-free
  4. https://help.openai.com/en/articles/8932459-creating-images-in-chatgpt
  5. https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-delays-rollout-of-chatgpts-image-generator-to-free-users-123041109.html