The ownership and copyright of AI-generated images varies depending on the platform and jurisdiction. Here’s a breakdown for each of the platforms as of June 2025:
1. ChatGPT (via OpenAI)
- Tool: DALL·E (used inside ChatGPT for image generation).
- Ownership: As of OpenAI’s terms (as of June 2025), you own the images you generate, including for commercial use.
- Caveat: You must comply with the usage policies (e.g., no illegal or harmful use). OpenAI does not claim copyright over your generated outputs.
📜 OpenAI Usage Policy
📜 OpenAI Terms of Use
2. Grok (via xAI / Elon Musk / Twitter/X)
- Tool: Not fully disclosed, but likely a mix of proprietary and open-source models.
- Ownership: xAI hasn’t published comprehensive commercial licensing terms like OpenAI. Until clear terms are posted, assume limited or no guaranteed commercial rights.
- Recommendation: Use caution when relying on Grok-generated content for commercial or copyrighted uses.
3. Sora (by OpenAI)
- Tool: Video generation model by OpenAI.
- Ownership: Same as other OpenAI tools: you own the outputs, provided they’re created in compliance with usage rules.
- Caveat: Sora is not publicly available yet for wide commercial use (as of June 2025). Early access or research access may have additional restrictions.
4. MidJourney
- Ownership Depends on Subscription Plan:
- Paid users: You own the images you create and can use them commercially.
- Free users (if allowed): MidJourney retains more rights; outputs are shared under a Creative Commons Noncommercial license.
- However, MidJourney retains a perpetual license to use your generated content (e.g., in their gallery).