We recently reported that OpenAI was working on a new social platform; today, the company announced the official release of this platform and its Sora 2 advanced video model, which powers it.
Announced on Tuesday, Sora 2 replaces the first model released last year and offers significant improvements in video and audio reproduction. OpenAI notes that the model, in particular, better adheres to the laws of physics and makes videos appear much more realistic than previous versions. For example, in previous models, if a basketball player missed a shot, the ball would sometimes teleport awkwardly into the basket; in Sora 2, the ball bounces according to natural physics. Examples shared in the announcement include beach volleyball matches, skateboard tricks, gymnastics moves, and diving board dives.
Along with the Sora 2 model, a new social app was also introduced: Sora, which allows users to create and share videos. The app features an algorithmic feed, similar to TikTok and Instagram Reels, allowing users to share their own videos with friends.
A standout feature is the self-upload feature called “cameos.” Users can upload a one-time video or audio recording and insert themselves into Sora-generated scenes. Created videos can be shared with friends and allow other users to add their likenesses to their videos. OpenAI states that this feature is the best way to experience the new video model’s capabilities.
Sora currently operates through invitations.
The app is currently available for download on iOS and is initially available in the US and Canada. The company aims to expand to other countries quickly. While the social platform is currently available by invitation, ChatGPT Pro users can try Sora 2 Pro without an invitation.
OpenAI will use user activity, IP-based location data, past post interactions, and ChatGPT conversation history for algorithmic recommendations, but these features can be turned off. The app also comes with ChatGPT-based parental controls, allowing parents to disable algorithmic personalization and manage their children’s messaging activity.
The Sora app will be free at launch. OpenAI will not initially charge any fees to allow users to freely explore the platform’s capabilities. Its monetization plan involves paying users to create additional videos during periods of high demand.
However, OpenAI’s new social platform presents significant challenges regarding user security and consent. While users can revoke access to their likenesses at any time, such content remains vulnerable to abuse. Non-consensual videos are a persistent problem with AI-based content, and the platform’s liability is not clearly regulated by law.
OpenAI’s Sora and Sora 2 platforms stand out as some of the first significant examples of next-generation platforms combining social media and AI. Users will be able to create and share short-form videos and explore the new frontiers of AI by bringing their likenesses into virtual environments.
