FLUX1.1 [pro] Evolves: Ultra and Raw Modes Redefine AI Image Generation
BlackForestLabs has introduced significant updates to FLUX1.1 [pro], adding Ultra and Raw modes that enhance resolution and natural aesthetics. The Ultra mode enables 4K resolution while maintaining impressive speed and the new Raw mode focuses on authentic-looking outputs. Founded by former Stable Diffusion researchers, the company has positioned its product competitively in the market with superior performance metrics and innovative features. The update represents a big leap in AI image generation technology, though it operates within the controversial space of AI training data usage.
Origins and Development
BlackForestLabs ¹, founded by three former Stable Diffusion researchers, has established itself as a significant player in the AI image generation space. The company emerged from the work of Robin Rombach, Andreas Blattmann, and Dominik Lorenz, who originally created Stable Diffusion during their university tenure. Their expertise has led FLUX to achieve second place on the Artificial Analysis Text to Image Model Leaderboard, demonstrating the platform’s technical prowess.
Screenshot of the Image Model Leaderboard ² (November 10, 2024)
Ultra Mode: Breaking Resolution Barriers
The newly introduced Ultra mode ³ represents a significant leap forward in AI image generation capabilities. Supporting resolutions up to 4MP (four times higher than standard), FLUX1.1 [pro] maintains an impressive generation time of just 10 seconds per sample. This performance is notably 2.5 times faster than comparable high-resolution offerings in the market. At $0.06 per image, the Ultra mode positions itself competitively while delivering superior quality and speed.
ELO score (quality and prompt adherence) vs generation speed. Screenshot ³
Raw Mode: Embracing Natural Aesthetics
The Raw mode introduction addresses a crucial market need for more authentic-looking AI-generated images. As stated by BlackForestLabs, “Our new raw mode captures the genuine feel of candid photography.” ³ This mode significantly enhances the diversity in human subjects and improves the realism of nature photography, creating images that can often pass for real photographs when viewed at smaller sizes. The focus on authenticity and natural aesthetics sets FLUX apart from traditional text-to-image models.
Here are examples of images generated with the new Raw mode (Screenshots from ³)
Technical Performance and Integration
FLUX1.1 [pro]’s overall performance showcases significant improvements over its predecessor, with generation speeds six times faster than the original version. The platform outperforms competitors like Ideogram v2 and Midjourney v6.1 in key metrics, particularly in prompt compliance and coherence. Both Ultra and Raw modes are readily available through BlackForestLabs’ API, enabling immediate integration for developers and users.
Market Position and Legal Considerations
While FLUX1.1 [pro] demonstrates impressive technical achievements, it operates within the complex landscape of AI training data usage. Like many in the industry, BlackForestLabs likely utilized web-scraped data for training, a practice that remains controversial. This approach mirrors broader industry practices, as evidenced by the ongoing lawsuit between Getty Images and Stable Diffusion ⁴. These legal considerations highlight the evolving nature of AI image generation rights and responsibilities.
Future Implications
The introduction of Ultra and Raw modes represents more than just technical advancement; it signals a shift toward more sophisticated and versatile AI image generation tools. The balance achieved between high-resolution output and processing speed, combined with improved natural aesthetics, positions FLUX1.1 [pro] as a significant contributor to the evolution of AI image generation technology.
Technical Specifications Summary
The platform’s technical specifications demonstrate its competitive edge: Ultra mode delivers 4K resolution with 10-second generation times, while Raw mode focuses on authentic output quality. The $0.06 per image pricing for Ultra mode makes high-quality AI image generation accessible while maintaining professional standards. BlackForestLabs demonstrates advanced technical capabilities through a system that combines prompt adherence, increased resolution, and improved natural aesthetics in its AI image generation approach.
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