OpenAI’s Studio Ghibli-style images renew the debate over AI and copyright

The internet’s latest obsession reveals both the magic and the murk of machine-made art.

This week, the internet had a rare opportunity to transform its selfies and family photos into stunning Studio Ghibli “portraits.” What started as a lighthearted trend quickly took a darker turn. Soon after “Images for ChatGPT” was unveiled on Tuesday, a tsunami of images generated in the distinctive Studio Ghibli style flooded social media. X users posted Ghibli-fied versions of their personal photos, popular memes, and public figures like President Donald Trump.