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Studio Ghibli hasn't commented on OpenAI's onslaught of AI copies, but the fan subreddit has | TechCrunch

Apr 03, 2025 - techcrunch.com
OpenAI's recent introduction of an image-generation feature in ChatGPT has sparked controversy, particularly among Studio Ghibli fans. Users have been creating AI-generated images resembling Studio Ghibli's animated films, prompting backlash from fans who enforce a ban on AI art in the Ghibli subreddit. The issue highlights broader concerns about AI models being trained on copyrighted materials without consent, as seen in lawsuits from The New York Times and others against OpenAI, Meta, and Midjourney. Hayao Miyazaki, the 84-year-old Ghibli mastermind, has previously expressed disdain for AI-generated art, describing it as lacking understanding of human emotion.

The controversy has been exacerbated by the widespread creation and sharing of "Ghiblified" images, including a controversial post by the White House's X account. Despite the backlash, OpenAI's Brad Lightcap reported that over 130 million users have generated more than 700 million images using the new feature, showcasing a wide range of visual creativity. Amanda Silberling, a senior writer at TechCrunch, covers this intersection of technology and culture, highlighting the ongoing debate over AI's role in art and intellectual property rights.

Key takeaways:

  • OpenAI's new image-generation feature in ChatGPT has sparked controversy by allowing users to create AI-generated images resembling Studio Ghibli's style, leading to backlash from fans and a ban on AI art in the Ghibli fan subreddit.
  • Fans argue that AI-generated art is not an homage to artists like Hayao Miyazaki, as these models are trained on copyrighted images without permission, echoing broader legal challenges faced by companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Midjourney.
  • Hayao Miyazaki has previously expressed strong disapproval of AI-generated artwork, describing it as lacking understanding of human emotion and creativity.
  • Despite the controversy, OpenAI reports significant usage of its image-generation feature, with over 130 million users creating more than 700 million images, showcasing a wide range of visual creativity.
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