Microsoft Launches MAI Image 2 Efficient: Faster, Cheaper AI Image Generation Model

Microsoft has introduced MAI Image 2 Efficient, a new version of its AI image generation model. This release follows last month's launch of MAI Image 2, which focused on creating realistic images and clearer text within visuals. The new model aims to deliver faster performance and lower costs for large-scale image generation tasks.

Key Highlights

• Microsoft launches MAI Image 2 Efficient, a faster and more cost-effective AI image generation model
• The new model is 22 percent faster and four times more efficient than the original MAI Image 2
• MAI Image 2 Efficient costs $5 per million text tokens and $19.50 per million image tokens
• The model is about 40 percent faster than other leading text-to-image AI models
• Early testers like Shutterstock have reported promising initial results with the new model

Key Features of MAI Image 2 Efficient

Microsoft describes MAI Image 2 Efficient as a 'production workhorse' that offers 'production-ready quality.' The company reports that the model is 22 percent faster and four times more efficient than the original MAI Image 2. The pricing structure has also changed. The new model costs $5 per one million text input tokens and $19.50 per one million image output tokens. This represents a 41 percent reduction in price compared to the previous version.

According to Microsoft, MAI Image 2 Efficient is about 40 percent faster on average than other leading text-to-image AI models. The company has positioned this model for tasks where speed and cost are critical, such as generating product images, marketing visuals, UI mockups, and branded materials in large quantities. The model also performs well with short text elements within images, including headlines, captions, and labels.

Comparison with Original MAI Image 2

The original MAI Image 2 model remains available for projects that require higher image quality and detail. Microsoft recommends this version for portraits, photorealistic scenes, stylized artwork such as anime or illustrations, and images that need longer or more complex text. This distinction allows users to choose the model best suited for their specific needs.

Availability and Early Adoption

MAI Image 2 Efficient is accessible through Microsoft Foundry and the MAI Playground. The company is also rolling out the model across Copilot and Bing, with plans to integrate it into more platforms like PowerPoint. Microsoft reports that some partners, including Shutterstock, have already begun testing the new model. Early feedback from these partners has been positive, according to the company.

Microsoft continues to expand its AI offerings, aiming to provide solutions that balance speed, efficiency, and quality for a range of professional and creative applications.