ChatGPT Image Feature Delayed for Free Users

ChatGPT Image Feature Rollout Paused Due to High Demand

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, revealed on Wednesday a postponement in the distribution of ChatGPT’s recently released AI image capabilities to its free user base.

This delay is attributed to a surge in user interest that has surpassed the company’s initial projections. Altman communicated this via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.

GPT-4o and Initial Availability

OpenAI unveiled the native image generation functionality within GPT-4o on Tuesday. This allows users to both upload and alter images directly within the platform.

The company initially stated that this feature would be extended to all ChatGPT subscription levels in the near future.

Currently, however, access to this functionality is limited to those subscribed to ChatGPT Pro, Plus, and Teams plans.

Capacity Challenges and Future Solutions

OpenAI has encountered comparable issues with previous product launches, consistently citing limitations in computing resources as the primary cause.

Following the launch of Sora in December, user registrations were temporarily suspended due to these constraints.

The ambitious Stargate data center project, valued at $500 billion, is anticipated to alleviate these capacity limitations and support future growth.

It is hoped that this substantial investment in infrastructure will prevent similar delays in the future.