OpenAI is developing a standalone app for its video generation model, Sora 2, according to documents reviewed by WIRED. The app features a vertical, swipe-to-scroll video feed similar to TikTok, though all content is produced by AI. A “For You”–style recommendation system drives the feed, while a side menu allows users to like, comment, or remix videos.
Key Features of Sora 2 (expected)
- Users can create AI-generated clips up to 10 seconds long.
- No uploads from personal photos or videos are allowed.
- Identity verification allows users to confirm their likeness.
- Verified users can appear in videos, and others can tag them.
- Users are notified whenever their likeness is used, even in draft clips.
OpenAI began internal testing last week, with employees reportedly responding positively. Some managers noted frequent use could affect productivity. The company appears to aim for a similar impact as ChatGPT, offering a new way for users to interact with AI-generated content.
Sources also suggested that TikTok’s U.S. operational uncertainty may have created an opportunity for OpenAI to launch a short-form video platform without ties to China.
Background and Competition
Sora first launched in December 2024 via a web interface and was later incorporated into the ChatGPT app. While the model was advanced at launch, it had difficulty generating longer clips and realistic action sequences.
The AI-generated video market is increasingly competitive. Meta recently introduced Vibes, a short AI video feed in its Meta AI app, while Google is rolling out Veo 3 on YouTube. TikTok has adopted stricter rules around AI-generated content, banning videos that mislead on public issues or could cause harm.
Copyright and Safety Concerns
Sora 2 includes filters to prevent videos that could infringe copyright. OpenAI faces multiple lawsuits over alleged copyright violations, including a high-profile case from The New York Times.
Child safety is also a focus: the company has added parental controls and is developing an age-prediction system to restrict users under 18 from certain interactions. Specific age restrictions for Sora 2 have not been disclosed.
Expected Timeline for Sora 2
There is no official release date for Sora 2, but industry observers speculate it could arrive in late 2025. If GPT-5 is released in the coming months, Sora 2 might follow soon after, potentially positioning OpenAI to compete directly with Google’s Veo 3.