OpenAI has announced it will shut down its video-generation platform Sora just six months after launch, with CEO Sam Altman reportedly informing staff that the company is winding down its video-focused products.
“We’re saying goodbye to the Sora app,” the platform posted on X Tuesday. “We understand this may be disappointing, and we’ll share more details soon, including timelines for the app, API, and how to preserve your work.”
Sora debuted in September to significant buzz, as the ChatGPT maker aimed to break into the short-form video space dominated by platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
However, the app also drew criticism over fears it could accelerate the spread of highly realistic deepfakes. OpenAI later took steps to restrict certain deepfake content following pressure from public figures.
Video-based products face shutdown
Sam Altman reportedly told staff that OpenAI is phasing out products built on video models, including the developer version of Sora and the app’s video features within ChatGPT, according to The Wall Street Journal.
He added that the Sora team will pivot toward longer-term initiatives such as robotics, as part of a broader company shift toward productivity tools for businesses and individual users.
Launched last year as a text-to-video generator, Sora quickly gained traction, reaching 1 million downloads within five days. According to Sensor Tower, the app recorded around 600,000 downloads last month.
Disney partnership scrapped
In December, The Walt Disney Company signed a three-year licensing agreement to become Sora’s first major content partner, granting users access to over 200 characters from franchises like Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars.
However, a Disney spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that the deal — which also included a planned $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI — will no longer proceed.
The artificial intelligence sector continues to generate significant excitement, with projections suggesting it could exceed $4.8 trillion in value by 2033, impact around 40% of jobs, and solidify its role as a leading frontier technology.
