OpenAI makes Sora AI video generator public

OpenAI released the latest version of its highly anticipated Sora Video Generator to the public, entering an increasingly crowded field of AI tools that has sparked concerns about disruption to the creative industries.

The company behind ChatGPT said its latest version, dubbed Sora Turbo, offers significant speed improvements over the February preview model and can create high-definition videos up to 22 seconds long.

While tech giants Google and Meta have also announced similar video tools, neither has yet met the enormous expectations set for AI since ChatGPT launched two years ago.

During a launch demonstration, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the video the technology is in its early stages, but insisted “it’s going to get much, much better.”

The service will be available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers, although notably absent from the European and UK markets for now.

“We’re going to do our best to be able to get going there,” Altman said in a livestream.

Basic subscribers can generate up to 50 videos per month in standard definition, with options to create content in different aspect ratios and incorporate existing media.

OpenAI has safeguards in place against misuse, including verification metadata and visible watermarks.

The company is temporarily restricting the generation of videos featuring real people while strengthening anti-deepfake measures.

Despite the launch, Sora still faces technical challenges.

Early reviews note inconsistent realism and difficulties with complex sequences.

An OpenAI employee tempered expectations during the live announcement: “If you go into Sora expecting to be able to just click a button and generate a feature film, I think you’re coming in with the wrong expectations.”

© 2024 AFP