ChatGPT’s AI Image Features Delayed for Free Users

OpenAI has delayed the rollout of its new AI image capabilities for free users of ChatGPT, citing unexpectedly high usage from paid subscribers. The announcement was made by CEO Sam Altman on Wednesday via a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Altman noted that image features in ChatGPT have proven to be “way more popular” than anticipated — even beyond the company’s already high expectations. As a result, the feature will remain exclusive to ChatGPT Pro, Plus, and Teams users for now.

The image tools are part of GPT-4o’s latest capabilities, which allow users to generate, upload, and edit images directly within the ChatGPT interface. These tools were introduced on Tuesday to expand access across all user tiers, but as of Wednesday, only paying users have received access.

This isn’t the first time OpenAI has run into issues with scaling new products. Similar delays occurred following the launch of its Sora video model in December, where the company had to pause signups due to overwhelming demand.

The recurring challenge highlights the strain on OpenAI’s infrastructure, which the company has acknowledged. Its ambitious $500 billion Stargate data center project, currently in the planning stages, is intended to address these compute limitations and support future AI rollouts.

For now, free-tier users of ChatGPT will have to wait for access to the new image generation and editing features, with no confirmed timeline for availability.