Meet GLM-Image
The next generation of AI image synthesis. Revolutionary compact token encoding generates stunning high-resolution images from text descriptions.
Sample GLM-Image generation
What is GLM-Image?
GLM-Image (also known as GLMImage) is an upcoming AI image generation model developed by Z.ai (formerly Zhipu AI), one of China's leading artificial intelligence companies. GLM-Image represents the next evolution in text-to-image synthesis technology.
Unlike traditional image generation models, GLM-Image uses a revolutionary compact token encoding approach. The model first generates a compressed semantic representation using approximately 256 tokens, then expands this to 1,000-4,000 tokens to produce high-resolution images. This two-stage process significantly improves both efficiency and output quality.
GLM-Image is part of the broader GLM ecosystem from Z.ai, which includes GLM-4.6V (a multimodal language model with 128K context and tool use capabilities) and Ying (a text-to-video generation model). Together, these models provide a comprehensive suite for AI-powered content creation.
Z.ai is known for aggressive pricing — their models typically cost around 13% of competitor prices while running on just 8 NVIDIA H20 chips. If GLM-Image follows this pattern, it could democratize access to high-quality AI image generation for developers and businesses worldwide.
Why GLM-Image?
Built on breakthrough research in compact token encoding and efficient image synthesis
Compact Encoding
Generates compressed representations in ~256 tokens, then expands to 1-4K tokens for high-resolution output
Cost Efficient
Following Z.ai's aggressive pricing strategy - expect significantly lower costs than competitors
High Resolution
Create stunning, detailed images with exceptional clarity and artistic quality
Fast Generation
Optimized inference pipeline for rapid image creation without compromising quality
Multimodal Ready
Seamlessly integrates with GLM-4.6V ecosystem for comprehensive AI solutions
Enterprise Scale
Built to handle production workloads with enterprise-grade reliability
Revolutionary Token Architecture
GLM-Image introduces a novel two-stage generation process that dramatically improves efficiency while maintaining exceptional output quality.
- ✓Stage 1: Compact semantic encoding (~256 tokens)
- ✓Stage 2: High-resolution expansion (1-4K tokens)
- ✓Optimized for NVIDIA H20 chips
- ✓Full compatibility with GLM ecosystem
Frequently Asked Questions about GLM-Image
What is GLM-Image and how does it work?
GLM-Image (GLMImage) is an AI image generation model from Z.ai that uses compact token encoding. It generates images in two stages: first creating a compressed 256-token representation, then expanding it to 1-4K tokens for high-resolution output. This approach delivers faster generation with lower costs.
When will GLM-Image be released?
GLM-Image is currently in development at Z.ai. Based on their release cadence (GLM-4.6V launched in December 2025), we expect GLM-Image to be announced in early 2026. Join our waitlist to be notified when it launches.
How does GLM-Image compare to other AI image generators?
GLM-Image is designed to be significantly more cost-effective than competitors like DALL-E, Midjourney, or Stable Diffusion. Z.ai models typically cost ~13% of competitor pricing. The compact encoding architecture also enables faster inference times.
What is Z.ai (Zhipu AI)?
Z.ai (formerly Zhipu AI) is one of China's top 3 AI companies, known for the GLM family of models. They went public on Hong Kong Stock Exchange in January 2026. Their products include GLM-4.6V (multimodal LLM) and Ying (video generation).
Will GLM-Image have an API?
Yes, GLM-Image will be available through the Z.ai API platform at open.bigmodel.cn. It will integrate with the existing GLM ecosystem, allowing developers to combine text, image, and video generation in their applications.
What resolutions will GLM-Image support?
GLM-Image is expected to support up to 4K resolution output. The two-stage token expansion process (256 → 1-4K tokens) allows for flexible resolution scaling while maintaining quality and efficiency.
Be First to Experience GLM-Image
Join our exclusive waitlist and get early access when GLM-Image launches. Be part of the next revolution in AI image generation.