OpenAI Launches Sora 2 and New TikTok-Style Video App

OpenAI has officially unveiled Sora 2, the next-generation version of its AI video creation model, along with a brand-new social app also called Sora. Designed to rival TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, the app introduces a swipe-and-scroll interface where users can generate short AI-powered clips exclusively through text prompts.

TikTok-Style AI Video Experience

The Sora app features a vertical video feed with familiar navigation that mimics today's most popular short-form video platforms. Unlike TikTok or Instagram, however, all content within the Sora app is AI-generated. Users cannot upload videos or images from their camera rolls—everything is created through OpenAI's advanced AI technology.

Key Features of the Sora App

• Exclusive AI Content – Every video is generated by OpenAI's AI, ensuring a feed of unique, machine-created clips.
• Cameo Feature – Users can verify their identity with a one-time video-and-audio recording. This allows them to generate videos featuring themselves or permit friends to include them in AI-generated clips.
• Short-Form Focus – Videos are capped at 10 seconds, encouraging fast, snackable content perfect for social sharing.
• Improved Realism with Sora 2 – The updated model introduces better physics, smoother body mechanics, and enhanced continuity across scenes.
• Content Moderation – Safeguards prevent the creation of videos with public figures without permission, as well as adult or extreme content. Downloaded videos include an AI-generated watermark for transparency.

Fighting Doomscrolling with AI

One of the more unique aspects of the Sora app is OpenAI's attempt to combat compulsive scrolling. Users under 18 won't have access to infinite scroll by default. Adult users who scroll for too long will also be prompted to create their own content instead of passively consuming.

Availability and Rollout

Currently, the Sora app is available on an invite-only basis for iOS users in the U.S. and Canada. A wider rollout is expected in the coming months. Additionally, ChatGPT Pro users may gain direct access to the Sora 2 model for AI video generation outside of the app.

Why Sora Matters

By merging the viral nature of TikTok with the creativity of AI, OpenAI is positioning Sora as a disruptive player in the short-form video space. With exclusive AI content, strong moderation policies, and cutting-edge realism, Sora could redefine how people create and consume videos online.