OpenAI announced on 3 November 2022 that its DALL·E image generation API had entered public beta, expanding access beyond the waitlist that previously controlled usage [source]. The API allows developers to integrate DALL·E's image generation, editing, and variation capabilities directly into applications and products.

The announcement detailed three core functions available through the API: generating images from text prompts, creating edited versions of existing images using text instructions, and producing variations of supplied images. OpenAI stated that the API uses the same model powering the consumer-facing DALL·E product launched earlier in 2022.

Pricing was set at $0.020 per image for 1024×1024 resolution, $0.018 for 512×512, and $0.016 for 256×256. The company indicated that volume pricing would be available for larger customers. Usage would be subject to OpenAI's existing content policy, which prohibits generation of violent, adult, or hateful content.

The move represented a significant expansion of commercial access to generative AI image tools. Prior to the public beta, DALL·E API access had been limited to approved partners and waitlisted developers. OpenAI noted that over 3 million users were already creating images through the consumer interface, generating more than 4 million images daily.

The announcement did not specify technical details about rate limits, model versioning, or how the API implementation might differ from the web interface. OpenAI indicated that developers could begin accessing the API immediately through the standard OpenAI platform, subject to account approval and adherence to usage policies.