Power Of Manus. ChatGPT’s Free Image Generation. Self Service-Selling

For most AI tools, you need to ask a question, and they spit out an answer. You want a task done?

They give you suggestions, but you still have to do the work.

However, Manus is an AI worker. It doesn’t just suggest ideas; it makes them happen.

Built by the Chinese startup Monica and launched on March 6, 2025, Manus doesn’t just assist; it acts.

Unlike ChatGPT or Gemini, it doesn’t sit around waiting for instructions. It thinks, plans, and executes without constant hand-holding.

This could change everything.

In the first section of Edition #48 of Vik’s M.I.X (Marketing Insights Exchange) Newsletter, I’m going to talk about how Manus is different from ChatGPT and Gemini.

Then, we’ll move on to another exciting news story.

AI-generated images are no longer just for paying users. Whether you need quick concept art, a social media post, or just some fun visual inspiration, ChatGPT’s DALL·E 3 is now at your service.

And it’s not just the technology that’s changing—buyers are changing too.

Younger buyers (millennials and Gen Z) hate slow, outdated buying processes.

They want speed, control, and convenience. This is why many companies are now embracing the self-service selling model.

In the last section, we’re going to cover how it works, key advancements, and a couple of examples.

So, here’s what we’re covering:

• The Power of Manus 

• ChatGPT’s Free Image Generation 

• Self-Service Selling

Here we go.

What Makes Manus Different?

1. Autonomy: It Thinks and Acts on Its Own

Most AI tools answer questions. Manus gets things done.

• Searching for an apartment? It checks listings, analyzes crime rates, compares commute times, and gives you a full report—without you guiding it step by step.

• Need stock market insights? Manus tracks trends, crunches numbers, and delivers ready-to-use data.

• Hiring for a job? Manus screens resumes, shortlists candidates, and organizes a structured report.

No back-and-forth. No wasted time. Just results.

2. It Doesn’t Just Write Code—It Runs It

Most AI models, including ChatGPT and Gemini, can generate Python scripts. But you still have to test them.

Manus? It writes, runs, and fixes the code itself.

• It generates scripts based on your request.

• It executes the code and checks for errors.

• It debugs and improves the output—without your input.

For developers, analysts, and automation experts, this is a game-changer.

3. GAIA Benchmark Performance: Top of the Class

Manus dominated the GAIA benchmark, an advanced AI evaluation test. It even outperformed OpenAI’s DeepResearch model in:

Problem-solving Execution speed Accuracy

That means Manus isn’t just promising—it’s already delivering.

What’s the Catch?

Limited Access: Manus is invite-only for now, and access codes are being resold for a premium. Slower Responses: Because it actually does work (not just answers), Manus takes longer to generate results. Still Learning: It’s not perfect—it can get stuck in loops, misinterpret tasks, or take unnecessary shortcuts.

ChatGPT’s Free Image Generation

Big news for AI art lovers—ChatGPT's image generator is now free for all users! OpenAI has unlocked DALL·E 3 for non-paying users, letting them generate two images per day without spending a dime. 

Before, this feature was a VIP perk for Plus subscribers, but now, anyone can give it a shot. Of course, there are some limits, but hey, free is free!

How to Use ChatGPT’s Image Builder

Using it is easy—just type what you want in ChatGPT. No special commands, no coding. Want a realistic landscape? A logo? A wild sci-fi scene? Just say the word.

But here’s the trick: be specific. Instead of saying "a cat," go for "a fluffy white Persian cat lounging by a sunny window, wearing tiny reading glasses." The more details, the better.

Not happy with the result? No problem! Refine your prompt—add colors, moods, or styles. Try different wording. Play around.

For even more control, advanced users can tweak settings like resolution, art style, and lighting to get exactly what they want.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

• Details matter. Don’t just say "a tree"—describe it! "A towering oak, its golden autumn leaves glowing in the sunset."

• Use reference images. Upload a picture and ask ChatGPT to match its style.

• Experiment. Try short prompts, long prompts, and even weird ones. AI loves a challenge!

• Know the limits. Free users get two images a day, so use them wisely.

Self-Service Selling

Remember when B2B sales meant endless calls, meetings, and back-and-forth emails? Well, those days are fading fast. Self-service selling models are changing the game, giving buyers the power to manage their own purchases—no sales reps required.

And guess what? Buyers love it. They get what they need faster, without waiting for a callback. Businesses win, too—lower costs, faster sales, and happier customers. Let’s break it down.

How Self-Service Selling Works

Self-service selling lets buyers handle tasks on their own, anytime they want. This includes:

Browsing products or services Configuring custom solutions Checking inventory and order status Requesting quotes or samples Making purchases and reorders Paying invoices

It’s all about simplicity. These platforms use clean, user-friendly interfaces, real-time data, and smart tools like AI chatbots and 3D visualization to make buying smooth and effortless.

Key Advancements in Self-Service Selling

AI-Powered Portals

AI chatbots are doing way more than answering FAQs. They help customers pick products, troubleshoot issues, and even track orders automatically.

Example: Salesforce’s self-service platform gives personalized recommendations and automates repetitive sales tasks.

3D Product Visualization

Why read a boring description when you can see the product in 3D and customize it in real time?

Example: DriveWorks Pro helps manufacturers create interactive 3D product configurators, cutting down errors and improving customer confidence.

Custom Pricing and Catalogs

Not all buyers should see the same prices. Self-service platforms adjust pricing based on past purchases, volume discounts, and buyer profiles.

Example: Shopify’s B2B ecommerce tools allow businesses to offer custom pricing and catalogs to different customers.

Integration with CRM Systems

Self-service doesn’t mean sales teams are out of the picture. These platforms feed valuable buyer data into CRM systems, helping sales teams upsell and cross-sell effectively.

💡 Example: Salesforce tracks what buyers search for, order, and abandon, giving sales reps a goldmine of insights to target high-value leads.

Product-Led Growth (PLG)

Some companies let buyers try before they buy. Freemium models and free trials let customers explore on their own, increasing conversions.

💡 Example: SaaS companies like Slack let users sign up for free, then upgrade when they’re hooked.

Real-World Examples

Amazon Business: A seamless self-service experience, allowing businesses to purchase supplies,

track orders, and manage accounts—no human help needed.

GE Appliances: Customers can customize appliances online, making the buying process smooth from design to delivery.

Grainger: Industrial buyers can search for parts, check inventory, and place orders instantly, with no sales rep in sight.

BMW: Buyers can customize their cars online before stepping into a dealership.

DriveWorks Pro: Manufacturers use this tool for rule-based customization, helping buyers configure complex products like machinery without a hassle.

Benefits of Self-Service Selling

✔ Faster, smoother buying: No waiting on sales calls—just click and go. ✔ Shorter sales cycles: No endless back-and-forth. Buyers make decisions faster. ✔ Lower costs: Automating processes reduces labor costs. ✔ Happier customers: Buyers love the freedom to manage their own journey.

Challenges

Seamless integration: Platforms must work smoothly with existing systems. Complex purchasing needs: Some deals still need human input. User adoption: Not all buyers are comfortable with self-service tools yet.

That’s a wrap for edition #48. If you enjoyed what you read, show some love with a thumbs up and leave a comment. Your support fuels my writing passion and helps the algorithm spread the word to more readers.

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