In 2024, AI image generation saw less excitement compared to the previous years, with video generation, particularly OpenAI’s Sora, capturing more interest. Ross Symons, co-founder of ZenRobot, noted that many tools are diversifying into video but that established tools like Midjourney still lead the market. Most AI image generators utilize diffusion models, trained to predict and reverse random noise into unique images while using text models to interpret user prompts. Though diffusion models have improved since 2022, their core functionality remains the same, shifting the focus from models to user-friendly software tools. **Midjourney** stands out for professional image generation, recognized for its detailed, vibrant images and artistic flair. Despite its origin as a Discord chatbot, it has developed a sophisticated web interface.

**Flux**, released in 2024 by Black Forest Labs, is a notable new entrant that excels in photorealism and offers advanced editing capabilities like in-painting and out-painting. Unlike Midjourney, it's open-source, allowing users to install and run it on their own hardware. **Leonardo. ai**, established in 2022, targets creative professionals with specific needs. Its newest in-house model, Phoenix, was released in 2024, enhancing its reputation alongside offering access to Flux. **Dall-E 3**, integrated into OpenAI’s ChatGPT, remains a significant tool, known for its image editing features despite being eclipsed by the excitement surrounding Sora’s video generation. **Google's ImageFX**, though experimental, produces high-quality images and operates on a user-friendly, free interface, making it appealing for casual users, despite being less talked about. Beyond these, tools like Magnific and Krea. ai also deserve recognition, yet image generators from established companies like Getty Images and Adobe don’t generate the same buzz, potentially due to their reliance on stock imagery for training. Looking ahead, 2025 seems set to mirror 2024, with video generation likely dominating the landscape, although Symons believes creative professionals will continue to find innovative uses for image generators as they grow more adept with the technology.