OpenAI Makes a Premium ChatGPT Feature Free, But There’s a Catch

Free ChatGPT users can now create images. OpenAI has made a small concession to free ChatGPT users. They can now generate two images daily using DALL-E 3.

While it’s better than nothing, the two-image limit is restrictive. DALL-E 3 is a powerful tool that normally requires a ChatGPT Plus subscription for unlimited use. This paid version costs $20 per month.

How to Use DALL-E 3 Free on ChatGPT

DALL-E 3 is nearing its first birthday. So, it makes sense for OpenAI to make it somewhat free to access. As for how to use it, you can now tap into the capabilities of DALL-E 3 directly within the ChatGPT interface. By providing text prompts, users can request a wide range of images. For instance, a simple query like “create a cute watercolor image of a chicken with a farmer on a white background” can yield impressive results.

To enhance image generation, users should be as specific as possible. Providing additional context, such as the intended use of the image (like a blog header), helps ChatGPT refine the prompt and generate more tailored results.

But the Two Daily Images Limit Is No Fun

ChatGPT’s DALL-E 3 access is limited. While free users can generate two images daily, other platforms offer more generous terms. Microsoft’s Designer and Copilot provide unlimited DALL-E 3 images, including 15 high-speed outputs. Google Gemini and Meta AI also offer free image generation. Even open-source tools like Craiyon and Stable Diffusion are available.

Is this a clever strategy to boost ChatGPT Plus subscriptions? OpenAI might argue it is. However, the two-image limit is restrictive and could frustrate users. Many people won’t realize they can get unlimited DALL-E 3 images elsewhere for free.

Compare this to GPT-4 access. Free ChatGPT users can extensively interact with GPT-4 before hitting daily limits. This contrasts sharply with the stingy DALL-E 3 allowance.

The future of image generation on ChatGPT remains uncertain. GPT-4 image generation could change the landscape. Until then, users have alternatives for their image needs.

OpenAI might reconsider its strategy to avoid alienating free users and encourage long-term loyalty.