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OpenAI halts free GPT-4o image generation after Studio Ghibli viral trend

Mar 27, 2025 - digitaltrends.com
OpenAI has paused the free version of its in-app image generator, powered by the GPT-4o reasoning model, after just one day due to a surge in user-generated content styled after Studio Ghibli. This trend prompted OpenAI to reconsider its rollout strategy. While the update aimed to enhance realism in AI-generated images and text, users quickly began sharing their creations on social media, including family photos and scenes from popular movies and events. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman also participated by updating his profile picture to a Studio Ghibli-style image, but later announced the delay of the update for the ChatGPT free tier. The paid tiers, however, still have access to the feature.

The GPT-4o model uses an "autoregressive approach" to improve image accuracy and realism, generating images progressively rather than all at once. OpenAI has conducted human-directed post-launch training to address common errors. The legality of using AI to emulate styles, such as Studio Ghibli, remains a gray area, though it is not explicitly protected by copyright. OpenAI is cautious about potential legal issues and has removed the update from the free tier while determining its next steps. This situation is reminiscent of previous AI trends, such as generating Funko Pop! figures, which also highlighted legal challenges in AI-generated content.

Key takeaways:

  • OpenAI halted the free version of its in-app image generator powered by the GPT-4o reasoning model after just one day due to a viral trend of creating Studio Ghibli-style images.
  • The GPT-4o model uses an autoregressive approach to generate images, enhancing accuracy and realism compared to older models.
  • There are legal and ethical concerns regarding the use of AI to emulate styles, as style is not explicitly protected by copyright, placing it in a legal gray area.
  • OpenAI is reconsidering its rollout strategy for the free tier while paid tiers still have access to the GPT-4o update.
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