xAI’s Grok chatbot has gained significant popularity in recent days, especially as ChatGPT’s paywalled native image generation feature led to a surge in demand for Studio Ghibli-style AI images. However, some users are now encountering errors when trying to generate ‘Ghiblified’ images, prompting them to subscribe to X Premium or Premium+ to continue using the feature.
Issues with Ghibli-Style Image Generation on Grok
We attempted to generate Studio Ghibli-style images using the Grok tab on the X website and app, trying different accounts with the same text prompt that had previously worked. However, we encountered a usage limit error and were prompted to purchase an X Premium or Premium+ subscription to access the feature. Notably, one of these accounts was generating AI images with Grok for the first time.
Interestingly, when we used the same prompt through the dedicated Grok website and app, the images were successfully generated in the Studio Ghibli style without any issues.
Why is the Studio Ghibli Trend So Popular?
OpenAI recently introduced native image generation for GPT-4o, enabling users to create more refined AI-generated images and even edit their existing ones.
Since then, social media users have been transforming their pictures into Studio Ghibli-style animations, turning their cherished moments into scenes reminiscent of the beloved Japanese anime. The trend has gained widespread attention, with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and various global leaders sharing their own Ghibli-style images.
What is Studio Ghibli?
Studio Ghibli is a renowned Japanese animation studio founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki. The studio is known for its hand-drawn animation, rich storytelling, and visually stunning films.
Some of its most iconic works include My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Princess Mononoke. Ghibli films are celebrated for their dreamy landscapes, soft color palettes, and deeply emotional narratives. The studio’s labor-intensive, hand-drawn animation is widely regarded as the gold standard in traditional animation.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently stated that the viral Ghibli-style image trend is “melting” the company’s GPUs, suggesting that xAI might be facing similar technical challenges.
xAI’s Acquisition of X
Recently, xAI acquired X (formerly Twitter) in a $33 billion all-stock deal. Announcing the acquisition, Elon Musk stated, “xAI and X’s futures are deeply connected. Today, we take a significant step in merging data, models, computing power, distribution, and talent. This integration will unlock immense potential by combining xAI’s advanced AI expertise with X’s vast reach.”
