OpenAI tests watermarking for ChatGPT-4o Image Generation model

April 6, 2025

ChatGPT

OpenAI is reportedly testing a new "watermark" for the Image Generation model, which is a part of the ChatGPT 4o model.

This is an interesting move, and it's likely because more and more users are generating Studio Ghibli artwork using the ImageGen model.

In fact, ChatGPT is in the news largely due to the Image Generation model, which is the most advanced multi-model shipped to date.

Not only can it accurately generate images with texts, but it also allows you to create realistic visuals, such as art produced by Studio Ghibli, a famous and big name in the Japanese studio world.

ChatGPT's ImageGen model was previously limited to paid users (ChatGPT Plus customers), but it has now rolled out to everyone, including those with a free subscription.

As spotted by AI researcher Tibor Blaho, it looks like OpenAI is working on a new "ImageGen" watermark for free users.

My sources also told me that OpenAI recently started testing watermarks for images generated using ChatGPT's free account.

If you subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, you'll be able to save images without the watermark.

However, it's unclear if OpenAI will move ahead with its plans to watermark images. Plans at OpenAI are always subject to change.

ImageGen is a powerful model, API coming soon

In a blog post, OpenAI previously noted that it trained the model on a large set of images and texts, which is why the image generation is not only beautiful but useful.

"We trained our models on the joint distribution of online images and text, learning not just how images relate to language, but how they relate to each other," OpenAI noted.

"Combined with aggressive post-training, the resulting model has surprising visual fluency, capable of generating images that are useful, consistent, and context-aware."

OpenAI has also confirmed that it's working on an ImageGen API, so developers can build their own products.