OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently updated his profile picture on the social media platform ‘X,’ choosing an AI-generated image inspired by the famous Ghibli animation style. 

“Changed my pfp but maybe someone will make me a better one," he joked in his post. 

Soon after, ChatGPT users ran with the idea, creating their own versions of Ghibli-style art, turning ordinary photos into magical, animated scenes.

From cherished childhood memories to iconic movie stills and even wedding proposals, people started transforming everything into the charming world of Studio Ghibli. And with everyone sharing their creations online, it seems no one is complaining about this latest AI trend.

The AI tool behind the trend

This viral trend is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4o model, which has its own image generation tool. It allows users to create memes, stickers, signs, photorealistic pictures, and, of course, Ghibli-inspired images.

“Unlocking useful and valuable image generation with a natively multimodal model capable of precise, accurate, photorealistic outputs," OpenAI shared when announcing the new feature.

The tool is simple to use: just upload any image and type in a prompt like, “Create a Studio Ghibli version of this image." In moments, users get a beautifully Ghibli-fied result, perfect for sharing on social media.

What is Studio Ghibli?

For those unfamiliar with the animation studio, here’s how ChatGPT describes it:

“Studio Ghibli is a renowned Japanese animation studio, famous for creating beautifully crafted, imaginative, and emotionally resonant films. It was founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, two influential directors in the world of animation. The studio is widely regarded for its stunning artwork, deep storytelling, and themes of nature, humanity, fantasy, and self-discovery."

Some of Ghibli’s masterpieces are The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013), Spirited Away (2001), and Grave of the Fireflies (1988).

Ghibli madness takes over social media

As users began transforming their favorite movie scenes, personal photos, and life moments into Ghibli-style images, social media was flooded with these charming artworks. One user on ‘X’ summed up the excitement, saying, “I don’t want any real pictures anymore. Every photograph has to be turned into a Ghibli-style cartoon."

And, of course, no global trend is complete without curious Indians joining in. Many headed straight to Google, searching for ways to generate their own Ghibli-style art.

With AI-powered tools getting more creative and accessible, trends like the Ghibli-style image craze are just the beginning. For now, though, users seem happy exploring the whimsical, animated world of Studio Ghibli – one AI-generated image at a time.

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