April 1, 2025: The internet is abuzz with enchanting Studio Ghibli inspired portraits, memes and photos. As the trend continues to gain momentum, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has announced that the feature, previously exclusive to premium users, is now available to all users, including those with free accounts.

In a post on X, Sam Altman shared the exciting update: “ChatGPT image generation is now rolled out to all free users.” Since its launch on March 26, the feature has become a viral sensation, with celebrities, politicians and even political parties sharing their own Studio Ghibli-style images.

The feature’s massive popularity has brought a touch of magic to social media.

Meanwhile the internet is divided over democratization of Ghibli. ChatGPT users have flooded social media with AI generated portraits in the style of Studio Ghibli, often without a deeper appreciation for the renowned Japanese animation studio’s extensive body of work. This trend has inadvertently reduced the meticulous craftsmanship and decades of passion of Hayao Miyazaki.