In a move that has sparked widespread debate among fans and creators, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has updated its policy regarding Ghibli-style photos. The tech giant now explicitly disallows users from modifying, altering, or transforming any images or illustrations that reference Studio Ghibli’s iconic aesthetic. This shift follows recent legal actions taken by Studio Ghibli against unauthorized usage of its intellectual property (IP).
An image circulating online—allegedly from Studio Ghibli, Inc. and dated March 27, 2025—shows a formal cease-and-desist letter addressed to a company called Gib Studio LLC based in Miami, Florida. The letter reads, in part:
“We are issuing this notice to demand a complete cessation of Studio Ghibli’s rights, all of which are protected under international copyright laws... Any derivative use or references to our original motion pictures such as Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and others, must cease immediately.”
The letter goes on to specify that Gib Studio LLC must stop producing content that infringes on Studio Ghibli’s trademarks and copyrights. It warns that any continued unauthorized references or transformations of Ghibli-style characters, backgrounds, or narratives would constitute a violation of the studio’s IP.
Shortly after the cease-and-desist letter began circulating, OpenAI’s ChatGPT implemented stricter guidelines on Ghibli-related prompts and images. According to a report in The Times of India, the AI company now prohibits users from modifying or transforming Ghibli-style photos or illustrations through its platform.
While many assumed that Studio Ghibli’s legal action prompted this change, there is no official confirmation from OpenAI linking the two. It could just be coincidental timing.
Previously, some users had utilized ChatGPT’s image-generation tools—or other AI-powered services integrated with ChatGPT—to create fan art or stylized renditions mimicking the Ghibli aesthetic. These practices often involved “transforming” existing images or characters to reflect the distinct Ghibli look. With the new policy, such transformations are no longer allowed, presumably in an effort to avoid potential legal disputes.
Industry insiders suggest that Studio Ghibli’s vigilant protection of its IP is the driving force behind these changes. The iconic animation studio, co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki, has always been protective of its brand and the visual elements that define its beloved films.
The cease-and-desist letter underscores Studio Ghibli’s commitment to defending its creative works, stating:
“We demand that you immediately cease using, distributing, or replicating any material that references Studio Ghibli’s characters, storylines, or associated marks.”
In a recent tweet, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the image generation feature in ChatGPT:
“it’s super fun seeing people love images in chatgpt. but our GPUs are melting. we are going to temporarily introduce some rate limits while we work on making it more efficient. hopefully won’t be long! chatgpt free tier will get 3 generations per day soon.”
This suggests that technical constraints—rather than legal pressures—might be a key factor behind ChatGPT’s updated image policies. Altman specifically mentions rate limits and GPU efficiency, implying the changes are at least partially driven by resource management issues.
Reactions from fans have been mixed. Some applaud Studio Ghibli for upholding creative integrity, while others lament the loss of freedom to create Ghibli-inspired art for personal or educational purposes. On social media, discussions highlight the tension between artistic expression and corporate ownership of beloved IP.
IP Protection: Some fans see OpenAI’s Ghibli-related restrictions as a proactive move to avoid legal trouble.
Technical Bottlenecks: Others believe GPU constraints and server loads are the main reason for limiting image-generation capabilities.
Coincidence or Causation?: With both events happening around the same time, the public is left guessing if OpenAI’s policy was influenced by Ghibli’s legal notice—or if it’s simply about managing AI resources.
Studio Ghibli’s Legal Vigilance: Studio Ghibli continues to safeguard its IP and may issue similar notices to other parties in the future.
OpenAI’s Next Steps: As ChatGPT’s ghibli style ai image generation remains in high demand, more rate limits or feature adjustments could follow.
Balancing Creativity & Copyright: Both creators and AI platforms face growing challenges in navigating copyright laws and fair use boundaries.
Ultimately, while the Ghibli cease-and-desist letter has captured attention, Sam Altman’s comments highlight a more immediate concern: technical limitations. Until OpenAI provides an official explanation, it remains uncertain whether the policy changes are purely legal precaution, a response to resource strain, or a blend of both.
