Well… image-gen-1 is friggin expensive. At $3 per book, it’s just not sustainable for Story Hero long-term. So today was all about optimization mode. 🛠️💸
We dove deep into cost-cutting strategies for our image pipeline. Started comparing direct image-gen-1 calls with GPT-4o chat completions using tools to see how much we can stretch per dollar. At the same time, we started testing more specific and structured local workflows using ComfyUI to replicate high-quality results at a fraction of the cost. The testing continues… The nightmare continues. 😵💫
On a brighter note — we added an age gate to our onboarding flow to keep Story Hero safe for kids. 🧒👨👩👧
If a user is under 13, they’re now prompted to have a parent complete setup — a key step to ensure we’re COPPA-compliant and delivering on our promise to be the safest storytelling app for kids.
Every day gets a little tougher, but also a little more real. We’re still all-in on making Story Hero not just a product — but a mission.
Let’s keep shipping. 🦸♂️📚