OpenAI is delaying the release of its new image generation feature for free ChatGPT users, citing unexpectedly high demand. CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the postponement in a post on Wednesday, saying the feature's popularity surpassed expectations, which led to a temporary hold on the wider rollout.

The tool, introduced just a day earlier, allows users to create images directly within ChatGPT using the advanced GPT-4o model. The update quickly went viral, with social media flooded by user-generated visuals - many mimicking the whimsical style of Studio Ghibli - including contributions from Altman himself.

GPT-4o enhances text and image capabilities, generating images in a step-by-step, top-to-bottom process known as an autoregressive approach. Currently, the feature remains exclusive to paid ChatGPT tiers: Plus, Pro, and Team. A timeline for when free users will gain access has yet to be announced.

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