OpenAI's decision to extend ChatGPT's image generation capability to free-tier users has sparked unprecedented user engagement, with CEO Sam Altman reporting one million new users within just an hour of release. The feature, powered by GPT-4o model, enables users to create Studio Ghibli-style visuals and other creative outputs. Previously exclusive to paid subscribers, the tool now allows free users to generate three images daily. Altman noted this adoption rate surpassed ChatGPT's original launch, which took five days to reach one million users.