OpenAI takes on TikTok, Instagram Reels with new social media app called Sora

OpenAI

OpenAI on Tuesday introduced Sora 2, the successor to last year’s video model, paired with a new social app also called Sora. The app blends generative AI with TikTok-style feeds, letting users create, share, and remix short-form videos featuring themselves and friends.

Sora 2 improves realism by adhering more closely to physics. OpenAI says prior models often “cheated” reality—like making a missed basketball shot teleport into the hoop. Now, missed shots bounce naturally off the backboard. Early demos include volleyball rallies, skateboarding tricks, and cannonball dives, all rendered with greater fidelity.

A key feature is “cameos,” which allows users to insert their likeness into AI-generated scenes. To do so, users must upload a one-time video and audio recording for verification. Cameos can also be shared with friends, enabling group-generated content.

Who can use the Sora app?

The Sora app, currently invite-only, rolls out first on iOS in the US and Canada. Generated videos can be shared within a TikTok-like feed, with recommendations powered by user activity, IP-based location, engagement history, and optionally, ChatGPT conversations. Parental controls—such as limiting infinite scroll and disabling personalization—are also included, though their effectiveness depends on technical know-how.

OpenAI said that it tested the app internally last week with all its employees. "We’ve already heard from our colleagues that they’re making new friends at the company because of the feature. We think a social app built around this “cameos” feature is the best way to experience the magic of Sora 2," said OpenAI in a blog post.

At launch, the app is free. Monetisation will focus on charging for extra video generations during peak demand. Meanwhile, ChatGPT Pro users can try Sora 2 Pro directly, bypassing the invite list.

The launch of the app, however, does raise safety questions. Even with consent-based cameo sharing and the ability to revoke likeness access, misuse remains a risk. Non-consensual AI video is already a growing issue, and regulators are yet to define clear responsibilities for platforms hosting such content.

With Sora, OpenAI steps directly into the social media space—pitting its algorithmic AI video feed against TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Meta’s newly launched Vibes.