OpenAI has unveiled Sora 2, its next-generation AI video and audio model, alongside a new social media app called Sora, which functions much like TikTok.
The app, now available on iOS in the U.S. and Canada, lets users generate and share short AI videos featuring themselves and friends.
The launch marks a major upgrade from last year’s original Sora model. According to OpenAI, Sora 2 produces videos that follow the laws of physics more closely, creating more realistic results.
For instance, earlier AI models would sometimes distort objects or bend reality to fit a prompt — such as teleporting a basketball into the hoop after a missed shot. In contrast, Sora 2 ensures the ball rebounds naturally off the backboard.
OpenAI has shared early demonstrations of Sora 2 showing lifelike beach volleyball matches, skateboard tricks, gymnastics routines, and even diving board cannonballs.
A TikTok-style social experience
Alongside the model, OpenAI has introduced Sora, a linked iOS app with a TikTok-like video feed. The platform lets users upload themselves into AI-generated clips through a feature called “cameos.”
To enable this, users must first record a one-time video and audio sample for identity verification. Once approved, they can insert their likeness into different scenarios — and even grant friends permission to feature them in multi-person AI videos.
“We think a social app built around this ‘cameos’ feature is the best way to experience the magic of Sora 2,” OpenAI said in a blog post.
Privacy, safety, and parental controls
The new app comes with algorithm-driven recommendations, based on a user’s Sora activity, IP location, prior engagement, and even ChatGPT conversation history. However, users can opt out of linking their ChatGPT data.
Parents will also have tools to oversee children’s activity through ChatGPT-linked controls. These include disabling infinite scroll, limiting algorithmic personalization, and managing direct messaging. Still, OpenAI cautions that the effectiveness of these tools depends on parental technical knowledge.
Monetization and availability
The Sora app is free to download and explore at launch. OpenAI says monetization will initially focus only on charging users who want to generate extra videos during periods of high demand.
For now, the app is invite-only, though ChatGPT Pro users can try the Sora 2 Pro model without needing an invite. OpenAI says it plans to expand the app beyond the U.S. and Canada in the near future.
