OpenAI’s ChatGPT has recently introduced a feature that allows users to generate images in the distinctive style of Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation studio. This capability has rapidly gained popularity, leading to an overwhelming number of requests. In response, OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has appealed to users to moderate their usage to alleviate the strain on the system.
Altman took to the microblogging platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to address the situation. He posted, “Can y’all please chill on generating images? This is insane; our team needs sleep.” This plea underscores the significant demand and the resultant pressure on OpenAI’s resources.
can yall please chill on generating images this is insane our team needs sleep
— Sam Altman (@sama) March 30, 2025
The surge in generating Ghibli-style images has not only impacted OpenAI’s infrastructure but has also sparked discussions about the ethical implications of using AI to replicate the artistic styles of established studios.
Studio Ghibli, co-founded by the esteemed animator Hayao Miyazaki, is celebrated for its unique hand-drawn animation style. The replication of this style by AI has raised questions about intellectual property rights and the potential impact on human creativity. Miyazaki himself has previously expressed strong reservations about the use of artificial intelligence in creative processes, describing it as an “insult to life itself.”
In light of these concerns and the technical challenges posed by the high volume of image generation requests, Altman has urged users to be mindful of their usage. This situation highlights the broader challenges faced by AI developers in balancing innovation with ethical considerations and resource management.
As AI continues to evolve, it remains crucial for both developers and users to navigate these challenges thoughtfully, ensuring that technological advancements complement and respect traditional artistic expressions.
