ChatGPT Reaches 1 Billion Users as OpenAI CEO Reports Rapid Growth
Rapid Growth of ChatGPT: Insights from Sam Altman at TED 2025
Recent discussions at TED 2025 have highlighted the impressive surge in user engagement for OpenAI’s ChatGPT. CEO Sam Altman disclosed during a conversation with TED curator Chris Anderson that the platform’s user base has seen extraordinary growth, doubling within a matter of weeks.
Surging User Numbers
Current Stats
During their on-stage conversation, Anderson sought to clarify the number of active users on ChatGPT. Altman revealed, “I think the last time we said was 500 million weekly actives, and it is growing very rapidly.” He acknowledged that this number had doubled recently, indicating an impressive trend in user engagement.
Altman further noted that approximately 10% of the global population is now utilizing ChatGPT regularly. While he did hint at figures suggesting hundreds of millions of users, he didn’t specify the one billion active users referenced earlier.
Factors Contributing to Growth
Since late 2024, a variety of innovative features have fueled the platform’s popularity. A significant highlight was the introduction of an image generation capability on March 25, 2025, enabling users to create images and videos in styles reminiscent of renowned studios like Studio Ghibli, famous for classics such as My Neighbor Totoro.
Shortly after this feature was launched, on March 31, Altman announced a milestone on social media, stating that ChatGPT added a million users in just one hour. This was a stark contrast to the five days it previously required during its viral launch in late 2022.
Addressing Content Creation and Copyright
Compensation for Artists
During the session, Anderson raised the topic of compensating artists for their contributions, especially those whose styles are emulated by the AI. Altman responded affirmatively, mentioning the potential implementation of a system where certain prompts could prompt automatic payments to artists who opt-in to this feature. He also assured the audience that measures exist to prevent the AI from generating copyrighted material.
Reducing Restrictions
On another note, Altman discussed plans to make ChatGPT less restricted. While the current system emphasizes caution against potential speech harm, the intention is to allow for more flexibility. This change aims to satisfy user demand for a less censored experience.
Enhanced Personalization Features
Memory Feature
A noteworthy addition to ChatGPT is the new memory capability, which allows the AI to retain query history and better understand users over time. Altman described this feature as a way for the AI to become a more personal companion, enhancing its ability to assist users effectively and proactively.
Autonomous Transactions
OpenAI is also making strides in developing AI agents that can operate autonomously on behalf of users. This move follows a recent $300 billion valuation, marking the largest private funding round in history for the company.
The Future of Work and AI
AI’s Impact on Jobs
One of the more sensitive topics discussed was the potential impact of AI on employment. Anderson expressed concern regarding the possibility of AI replacing human jobs. Altman outlined two perspectives a person might adopt:
- Fear of Replacement: Individuals may feel threatened by AI taking over tasks they perform.
- Embracing the Change: Alternatively, one can view AI as a new tool, similar to past technological revolutions, that empowers individuals to achieve more.
Altman suggested that while job expectations may rise, the capabilities provided by AI will also expand, making it feasible for individuals to adapt and excel in their roles.
By understanding these developments and insights, it becomes clear how rapidly AI technology is evolving and integrating into everyday life. The growth trajectory of ChatGPT and its features offers a glimpse into the future of AI and its relationship with users worldwide.
