OpenAI could soon introduce watermarking for images generated in the free version of ChatGPT. A recent teardown of the ChatGPT Android app revealed a potential new feature that allows users to “Save without watermark".
This suggests a possible paywall for clean image downloads in the future. The discovery comes from version 1.2025.196 of the ChatGPT Android beta app, which contains code referring to an “image-gen-watermark-for-free” flag.
This implies that watermarks might be automatically added to AI-generated images for free-tier users. Interestingly, the “Save without watermark” option was briefly visible in the app's menu during testing, even on a free account.
Possible changes to Image Export for Free vs Paid users
While the feature is still in development, its inclusion hints at a potential monetisation strategy. If fully rolled out, it may mean that only paying users can save images without watermarks, while free users could be limited to watermarked exports.
During testing, the option to save without a watermark appeared inconsistently, suggesting that OpenAI may still be experimenting with its availability.
It is not yet confirmed whether all images for free users will be watermarked by default or whether this will depend on usage or image type. There is also no official confirmation about whether this feature will be exclusive to certain tiers, such as ChatGPT Plus or Team plans.
Our thoughts
From a user perspective in Malaysia and other regions, this potential update could shift how AI-generated images are used in content creation, social media, and marketing.
The presence of a watermark could deter casual users from freely sharing images or encourage them to upgrade to a premium plan. OpenAI’s decision here could influence broader trends in AI content monetisation.
As always, APK teardowns offer insight into what companies are working on but do not guarantee that these features will be released in their current form. The watermark system may change significantly before a public rollout.
What do you think? Would watermarking push you toward a paid ChatGPT plan, or would it discourage you from using AI-generated images? Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.
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