ChatGPT Use of English B1+

When the first widely available large language model artificial intelligence (LLM-AI) platform, ChatGPT, … in November 2023, we immediately wrote several columns in this space on its capabilities.

We also interviewed local artist John Souter, whose work has … in this newspaper, about the features of ChatGPT when it came to generating images from textual commands. He was impressed, and, equally, perplexed that this sort of activity was now possible.

In a test of ChatGPT in those early months, Mr. Souter provided a lengthy and explicit list of instructions for what he wanted in an AI-generated “painting.” He was … to see pretty much every one of those instructions followed as the AI engine spat out four variations on his theme.

Not that the images were perfect, mind you. On close inspection there were various artefacts … in many of these images - imperfections, or objects that simply shouldn't be there.

The potential, however, was obvious.

This was merely a beginning.

At the time, we couldn't answer questions about who really owns a work of art generated by a computer system. Fast forward just a couple of years and the floodgates have opened.

We can generate ever more sophisticated artwork, and yet the question of ownership - even of copyright violation - … open.

There are no easy answers.

Recently, ChatGPT unleashed added graphics processing options for its service. These options caused a surge in new signups - in the tens of millions - for the LLM Al engine, … to this statement from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman: "Our GPUs are melting."

Altman was specifically referring to the advanced graphics processing units which are at the heart of the current … in Al demand. He announced temporary limits on image generation to manage demand.

What captured the public's attention initially was Ghibli-style images, … the style of a Japanese design studio. These images represented a major step up from first-generation LLM AI artwork. Further, they could be produced with very simple commands.

All that is needed with these new types of images … to upload a photo and then follow with a very simple command, such as "Redo this in Ghibli style."

Within hours, ChatGPT's servers were bogged down and users of the free service were either facing long wait times or image generation limits. At the time of this writing there seems to be a limit of about half a dozen images a day, although the service will … bizarre statements such as "You've reached your image creation limit.

Upgrade to ChatGPT Plus or try again tomorrow after 7:33 PM." It is not at all obvious where the times come from.