OpenAI has rolled out an advanced image generation feature in ChatGPT-4o, sparking a viral trend that’s pushing its infrastructure to the brink. The new tool, dubbed “4o Image Generation,” enables users to create high-quality AI-generated images directly within ChatGPT. However, the overwhelming demand has forced OpenAI to introduce temporary restrictions.

ChatGPT’s New Image Feature Goes Viral

The latest update allows ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users to generate images seamlessly, with the feature gradually becoming available to free-tier users. However, ChatGPT Enterprise and Edu users are still awaiting access. OpenAI describes the tool as its “most advanced image generator yet,” leveraging a natively multimodal model for precise, photorealistic results.

As users flooded ChatGPT with Studio Ghibli-style images and other creative prompts, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the strain on the company’s GPU infrastructure. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “It’s super fun seeing people love images in ChatGPT, but our GPUs are melting.” To manage the surge, OpenAI announced temporary rate limits, with free-tier users soon restricted to three generations per day.

How to Generate Images with ChatGPT-4o

If you want to explore AI-generated art, here’s how to do it:

1. Open ChatGPT and tap the three-dot icon on the prompt bar.

2. Select “Image” from the available options.

3. Enter a text prompt, such as “Generate a Studio Ghibli-style portrait of a person under a bright blue sky.”

4. Modify the image by refining the prompt for more specific details.

5. Once satisfied, download your AI-generated masterpiece.

Alternative AI Image Generators

While ChatGPT-4o’s image generator is leading the charge, several other AI models offer similar capabilities:

Grok 3 AI Generator

1. Enter a text prompt in the Grok Image Generator.

2. Use the “Edit Image” option to refine details.

3. Download your favorite result.

4. Google Gemini AI Generator

For Google Gemini:

1. Access Gemini via the web or app.

2. Enter a prompt, like “a dog riding a surfboard.”

3. Generate and download the image.

Microsoft Copilot Image Generator

1. Open Copilot and enter your prompt.

2. Modify and refine the generated image.

3. Download the final version.

4. The Future of AI Image Generation

As AI-driven creativity continues to boom, balancing accessibility with infrastructure demands remains a challenge. OpenAI is working on optimizations, but for now, the ChatGPT image generation craze shows no signs of slowing down.