Introduction to OpenAI’s 4o Image Generation
OpenAI claims several key improvements with its new 4o Image Generation model: users can refine images through conversation while maintaining visual consistency; the system can analyze uploaded images and incorporate their details into new generations; and it offers stronger photorealism—although what constitutes photorealism (for example, imitations of HDR camera features, detail level, and image contrast) can be subjective.
Capabilities and Examples
In its blog post, OpenAI provided examples of intended uses for the image generator, including creating diagrams, infographics, social media graphics using specific color codes, logos, instruction posters, business cards, custom stock photos with transparent backgrounds, editing user photos, or visualizing concepts discussed earlier in a chat conversation. Notably absent: Any mention of the artists and graphic designers whose jobs might be affected by this technology. As we covered throughout 2022 and 2023, job impact is still a top concern among critics of AI-generated graphics.
Fluid Media Manipulation
Shortly after OpenAI launched 4o Image Generation, the AI community on X put the feature through its paces, finding that it is quite capable at inserting someone’s face into an existing image, creating fake screenshots, and converting meme photos into the style of Studio Ghibli, South Park, felt, Muppets, Rick and Morty, Family Guy, and much more. It seems like we’re entering a completely fluid media "reality" courtesy of a tool that can effortlessly convert visual media between styles. The styles also potentially encroach upon protected intellectual property. Given what Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki has previously said about AI-generated artwork ("I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself."), it seems he’d be unlikely to appreciate the current AI-generated Ghibli fad on X at the moment.
Testing 4o Image Generation
To get a sense of what 4o IG can do ourselves, we ran some informal tests, including some of the usual CRT barbarians, queens of the universe, and beer-drinking cats. The ChatGPT interface with the new 4o image model is conversational (like before with DALL-E 3), but you can suggest changes over time. For example, we took the author’s EGA pixel bio (as we did with Google’s model last week) and attempted to give it a full body. Arguably, Google’s more limited image model did a far better job than 4o IG.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s 4o Image Generation model represents a significant advancement in AI-generated graphics, offering a range of possibilities for creative applications. However, its potential impact on the job market for artists and graphic designers remains a concern. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be essential to consider the ethical implications and ensure that its development and use are guided by responsible principles.
FAQs
- Q: What are the key improvements of OpenAI’s 4o Image Generation model?
A: The model allows for image refinement through conversation, analyzes uploaded images to incorporate details into new generations, and offers stronger photorealism. - Q: What are some potential uses of the 4o Image Generation model?
A: Intended uses include creating diagrams, infographics, social media graphics, logos, instruction posters, business cards, custom stock photos, editing user photos, and visualizing concepts. - Q: How does the 4o Image Generation model perform in terms of style conversion?
A: The model can convert meme photos into various styles, such as Studio Ghibli, South Park, and Muppets, but may encroach upon protected intellectual property. - Q: What are the concerns regarding the job impact of AI-generated graphics?
A: The technology may affect the jobs of artists and graphic designers, a concern that has been highlighted in previous years. - Q: How does the ChatGPT interface work with the new 4o image model?
A: The interface is conversational, allowing users to suggest changes over time and interact with the model to refine images.
