AI-Generated Ghibli-Style Images Spark Surge in ChatGPT Usage, Straining Servers
A recent trend involving AI-generated images mimicking the iconic Studio Ghibli visual style has led to a dramatic increase in ChatGPT usage, placing significant strain on OpenAI’s servers and resulting in temporary limits on the platform’s image-generation tool.
The Trend Fuels Record Growth
The popularity of AI-generated art mimicking the hand-drawn aesthetic of Studio Ghibli films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro has taken social media by storm. This surge in interest has driven ChatGPT’s weekly active users to surpass 150 million, according to data from Similarweb—a new high for the platform this year.
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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman shared that in a single hour, one million new users joined ChatGPT, marking an unprecedented growth rate. To put this into perspective, it took five days to reach that same number following the initial ChatGPT launch over two years ago.
Record-Breaking Downloads and Revenue
SensorTower data revealed that last week, the ChatGPT app saw record-breaking metrics across multiple key areas. Global downloads grew by 11%, weekly active users rose by 5%, and in-app purchase revenue increased by 6% compared to the previous week.
Platform Struggles With Unprecedented Demand
The massive influx of traffic has led to technical disruptions. Many users reported slowdowns and occasional outages, prompting OpenAI to implement limits on its image-generation tool to maintain service stability. The company acknowledged these challenges, noting that delays in upcoming features were expected as they worked to manage the demand.
Legal Concerns Surrounding Ghibli-Style AI Artwork
The surge in AI-generated artwork imitating Studio Ghibli’s unique artistic style has raised legal questions. While copyright law traditionally protects specific works rather than broader artistic styles, the situation remains legally uncertain. Evan Brown, an attorney at Neal & McDevitt, stated: “The legal implications of AI-generated images imitating Studio Ghibli’s style are still unclear.”
Miyazaki’s Past Criticism of AI Resurfaces
As the trend grows, an interview from 2016 with Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has resurfaced. In the interview, Miyazaki expressed strong opposition to AI-generated visuals, stating: “I am utterly disgusted. I would never wish to incorporate this technology into my work at all.”
While OpenAI has yet to disclose whether its models were specifically trained on Ghibli-style images or if they have addressed concerns related to copyright or data usage regarding its image-generation tools, the conversation is likely to intensify as AI art continues to evolve.
This surge in interest for AI art has sparked a wider conversation about the future of AI in creative industries, as well as the legal and ethical questions surrounding its usage.
