OpenAI Launches Sora, Its New AI Video Generation Tool
Demand for Sora was so overwhelming that OpenAI had to disable signups temporarily.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 10 Dec 2024, 11:06 AM
OpenAI has officially launched Sora, its highly anticipated AI video generation tool
The tool is now available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users in the US and several other countries, although notably excluding the UK and EU.
Sora was launched during a livestream led by OpenAI chief executive officer Sam Altman on 9 December.
The AI video generation tool promises to revolutionise video creation with its photorealistic quality and advanced physics.
Previously accessible to select testers, Sora's public release has sparked both excitement and controversy
Sora's launch raises crucial questions about its training data, with reports suggesting that the AI tool may have utilised extensive web content.
According to the New York Times, the tool allegedly transcribed over a million hours of YouTube videos, raising concerns over the lack of credit or compensation for original creators.
Artists among its testers recently protested, accusing OpenAI of engaging in "art washing".
However, OpenAI assuaged fears by marketing Sora as a supportive AI tool
During the announcement, product designer Joey Flynn framed Sora as an "extension for creators", emphasising its role as a supportive tool.
Sora offers features like text-to-video generation, a storyboarding tool for detailed editing, and advanced options for transitions and sequences.
Videos include embedded safety measures, such as invisible watermarks, and restrictions against harmful content.
Despite the controversy swirling around Sora, demand for the AI tool was so strong that OpenAI had to temporarily disable signups
A quick check at the time of writing found that account creation is currently unavailable.
Instead of a register or sign up button, Sora displayed the following message:
"Sign-ups are temporarily unavailable. We’re currently experiencing heavy traffic and have temporarily disabled sign-ups. We’re working to get them back up shortly so check back soon."
Available to ChatGPT Plus and ChatGPT Pro users at sora.com, Sora comes with subscription-based limits, offering accessible entry points for creators to explore its potential.
