A recent wave of AI-generated images mimicking the visual style of Studio Ghibli has led to a significant spike in ChatGPT usage, straining OpenAI’s servers and prompting temporary limits on its image-generation tool.
Trend Drives Record Growth
The trend gained momentum as users on social platforms began posting artwork resembling the hand-drawn aesthetic of iconic Ghibli films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. The surge in interest pushed weekly active ChatGPT users past 150 million, according to data from Similarweb—the highest this year.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reported that one million new users joined the platform in a single hour, marking an unprecedented pace of growth. For comparison, it took five days to reach that number following ChatGPT’s original launch more than two years ago.
Record Downloads and Revenue
SensorTower data indicated that the ChatGPT app experienced record highs across several key metrics last week. Global downloads increased by 11%, weekly active users rose 5%, and in-app purchase revenue grew by 6% compared to the previous week.
Platform Struggles With Demand
The sudden traffic growth has caused technical disruptions. Users reported slowdowns and occasional outages as OpenAI implemented limits on the image-generation tool to stabilize services. The company acknowledged the strain and said delays in upcoming features were likely as it works to accommodate demand.
The popularity of AI-generated artwork in the style of Studio Ghibli has prompted legal questions. While copyright law generally protects specific works rather than artistic styles, legal experts say the situation remains legally ambiguous. According to attorney Evan Brown of Neal & McDevitt, “The legal implications of AI-generated images imitating Studio Ghibli’s unique style are still unclear.”
Miyazaki’s Past Criticism of AI Resurfaces
A 2016 interview with Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki has resurfaced as the trend gains traction. In it, the director criticized AI-generated visuals, saying, “I am utterly disgusted. I would never wish to incorporate this technology into my work at all.”
OpenAI has not disclosed whether its models were trained on Ghibli-style images or addressed specific concerns about copyright or data usage related to its image-generation tools.
