The Ghibli Effect: How ChatGPT’s Viral AI Filter Skyrocketed Usage and Redefined AI Art

1 Apr, 2025

Ghibli effect: ChatGPT usage hits record after rollout of viral feature

In early 2025, ChatGPT experienced an unprecedented surge in usage, shattering records and pushing its servers to the brink. The catalyst? A mesmerizing new feature dubbed the "Ghibli effect," an AI art tool that transforms ordinary images into stunning Studio Ghibli-inspired masterpieces. This viral AI filter, rooted in the whimsical and hand-drawn aesthetic of films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, has not only captivated users worldwide but also spotlighted the growing power—and potential—of AI art generation tools. Let’s dive into why the Ghibli effect took ChatGPT by storm, how it’s reshaping user engagement, and what it means for the future of accessible creativity.

What Is the Ghibli Effect?

The Ghibli effect refers to ChatGPT’s latest image-generation capability, launched as part of an update to its GPT-4o model. This feature allows users to upload photos or input prompts, instantly converting them into vibrant, anime-style artwork reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s iconic animation. Think soft pastel landscapes, expressive characters, and that signature dreamlike charm—all generated with a few clicks. Within days of its rollout, social media platforms were flooded with Ghibli-style selfies, reimagined movie scenes, and even historical moments given an anime twist. The frenzy was so intense that ChatGPT’s weekly active users soared past 150 million for the first time in 2025, with one million new users joining in a single hour.

Why the Ghibli Effect Went Viral

So, what fueled this explosive popularity? First, there’s the universal appeal of Studio Ghibli’s art. Known for its emotional depth and meticulous craftsmanship, the studio’s style evokes nostalgia and wonder, making it a perfect fit for a viral AI filter. Users didn’t need artistic skills or complex prompts—just a photo and a simple command like “convert to Studio Ghibli style.” The ease of use democratized creativity, turning everyone into an instant artist.

Second, the timing couldn’t have been better. AI art has been steadily gaining traction, but the Ghibli effect hit a cultural sweet spot. It tapped into the ongoing fascination with personalization—think selfies and family photos reimagined as anime characters—while riding the wave of social media sharing. Global app downloads jumped 11% week-over-week, and weekly active users grew by 5%, with in-app purchase revenue climbing 6%. The feature’s addictive nature kept users coming back, pushing ChatGPT’s servers to their limits and prompting temporary usage restrictions.

Finally, the Ghibli effect offered a fresh twist on AI art. Unlike earlier tools that churned out generic outputs, this filter delivered consistent, high-quality results tied to a beloved aesthetic. It wasn’t just a gimmick—it was a showcase of how far AI has come in mimicking human creativity.

Impact on ChatGPT Engagement

The Ghibli effect didn’t just bring in new users; it transformed how people interact with ChatGPT. Average weekly active users hit an all-time high, and the platform saw a flood of engagement as people shared their creations online. The surge was so overwhelming that it strained the system, leading to glitches and outages. “Our GPUs are melting,” quipped OpenAI’s CEO, highlighting the feature’s unexpected demand. Yet, despite the hiccups, the buzz was undeniable—ChatGPT became a cultural phenomenon overnight.

This spike in engagement underscores a broader trend: users crave interactive, creative tools. The Ghibli effect turned ChatGPT from a text-based chatbot into a playground for visual expression, broadening its appeal. Subscription revenue also spiked as more users upgraded to access the feature, proving that innovative AI art tools can drive both growth and profitability.

Broader Implications of Accessible AI Art

The Ghibli effect is more than a fleeting trend—it’s a glimpse into the future of AI-driven creativity. Readily accessible tools like this lower the barrier to artistic expression, empowering anyone with a smartphone to create professional-grade art. But it’s not without controversy. The feature has sparked debates about copyright, with some questioning whether mimicking Studio Ghibli’s style crosses legal or ethical lines. While copyright law typically protects specific works, not broad styles, the issue remains murky, especially as AI art becomes mainstream.

Moreover, the Ghibli effect highlights the double-edged sword of AI innovation. On one hand, it’s a triumph of technology, blending accessibility with stunning results. On the other, it raises questions about authenticity and the value of human artistry—echoing past sentiments from Studio Ghibli’s co-founder, who once called AI-generated images “an insult to life itself.” As AI art tools evolve, they’ll likely reshape creative industries, challenging traditional notions of authorship and ownership.

The Future of ChatGPT and AI Art

The Ghibli effect has cemented ChatGPT’s place at the forefront of the AI revolution. Its success proves that users are hungry for tools that blend fun, creativity, and cutting-edge tech. As the platform stabilizes its servers and expands the feature—potentially to free users—the Ghibli effect could pave the way for more viral AI filters, each pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. For now, it’s a testament to how AI art can captivate the world, one Ghibli-style masterpiece at a time.