OpenAI’s recent release of ChatGPT’s native image generation feature to free-tier users has created a viral sensation online, particularly for Studio Ghibli-style artwork. The feature, previously exclusive to paid subscribers, gained explosive popularity as users flooded social media with AI-generated images.
Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, announced on X that ChatGPT recorded one million users within just an hour of the update—a dramatic acceleration compared to the platform’s initial launch in November 2022, which took five days to reach the same milestone.
According to Brad Lightcap, who manages OpenAI’s operations and global deployment, over 130 million users have generated more than 700 million images since the upgraded image generator launched on March 25. Lightcap also noted that India has become ChatGPT’s fastest-growing market.
The massive influx of users has strained OpenAI’s infrastructure, forcing the company to implement temporary limitations. “Our GPUs are melting. We will introduce temporary rate limits while improving performance,” Altman posted on X, adding that free-tier users would soon be restricted to three image generations per day.
While many users have embraced the new feature, others question its long-term value beyond entertainment. Some social media commentators debate whether AI-generated images can transition from novelty to productivity tool, suggesting the feature may struggle to maintain interest unless integrated into daily AI workflows.
The viral success has become a “mixed blessing” for OpenAI, leading to millions of new signups while simultaneously causing product delays and temporarily degraded services as the company works to scale its infrastructure to meet unprecedented demand.
