OpenAI tests watermarks for images created by free users

OpenAI

OpenAI might soon start putting watermarks on images created using its free image generation tool in ChatGPT, according to a new report by BleepingComputer.

This move comes as more and more people are using the feature to create stunning visuals, including artwork inspired by famous styles like Studio Ghibli. The image generation tool, part of OpenAI’s latest model GPT-4o, was earlier available only to paid users. But now, even free users can access it — and that’s where the watermark comes in.

An AI researcher named Tibor Blaho recently spotted signs that OpenAI is testing watermarks for images created using free accounts. Some sources also say that the company has already started testing this behind the scenes. The idea is simple: if you’re using ChatGPT for free, the images you generate might soon come with a small watermark. But if you’re a ChatGPT Plus subscriber, you’ll still be able to save and use images without any watermark.

So far, OpenAI hasn’t made an official announcement, and plans could still change. But the move would make sense — it’s a way to clearly show which images were made using AI, especially now that the tool is available to everyone and becoming very popular.

OpenAI has shared some details about how its image model works. It’s trained on a massive mix of images and text, which helps it understand how visuals and language connect. That’s why it can produce such realistic and creative pictures.

The company is also working on an API for the image tool, which will let developers use it in their own apps and services.

For now, if you’re using ChatGPT’s image feature for free, don’t be surprised if you start seeing a small watermark on your creations. It’s just OpenAI’s way of saying, “Hey, this was made with AI.”