OpenAI Updates ChatGPT Access: Free Users Can Now Generate 2 Images Daily

Today, OpenAI announced adjustments to the access permissions for ChatGPT, extending the AI image generation feature, originally exclusive to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, to free users as well. However, there's a catch: free users are limited to generating up to 2 images daily.

The image generation capability of ChatGPT leverages the OpenAI DALL-E 3 model, which has seen wide adoption. For instance, developers can generate images through API calls, and Microsoft has incorporated the DALL-E 3 model in applications such as Bing Image Creator and Microsoft Designer.

OpenAI's decision to open up access is seen by some as a clever move？ OpenAI mentions that free users can now generate simple images to share with friends daily. However, generating an image that matches the user's preference on the first try is often challenging. Any attempt to fine-tune the image counts towards the daily limit, as each adjustment essentially means generating a new image. Essentially, this strategy seems aimed at enticing users to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus.

Rumors have circulated for some time that OpenAI has been grappling with significant losses, despite the growing revenue from ChatGPT Plus subscriptions. The income from subscriptions barely makes a dent in OpenAI's research and IT infrastructure expenses. Thus, attracting more subscribers appears to be a strategic move for OpenAI to increase its revenue.

For those who indeed need to generate images, considering alternatives like Bing Image Creator or Microsoft Designer might be worthwhile. These platforms allow for the creation of a larger number of free images. If you hit a limit, simply switch to another product.