OpenAI opens free access to improved ChatGPT image generator

OpenAI has made its latest ChatGPT image generation tool available to all users without requiring a paid subscription. The feature, which went viral for its ability to create remarkably accurate Studio Ghibli-style images, is now accessible to everyone. CEO Sam Altman announced the update on social media, stating that it "now rolled out to all free users."

Free tier users face daily limitations, with access restricted to three image generations per day. ChatGPT provides minimal details about these restrictions, only mentioning "limited access" to image generation features for non-paying users. Once the daily limit is exhausted, users are prompted to upgrade to a paid subscription to continue creating images.

The enhanced image generator, powered by the GPT-4o model, initially launched on March 25 with plans to release across all tiers—ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Team, and Free. However, OpenAI delayed the free tier release just one day later due to overwhelming demand. At peak usage, ChatGPT recorded an influx of one million new users in a single hour.

The free access rollout coincides with significant financial news for OpenAI. Yesterday, the company completed a new investment round, securing a record $40 billion — the largest funding ever for a private tech company. This latest round values OpenAI at $300 billion.