A new social platform related to TikTok is powered by the next-generation Sora 2 model, which allows users to make and share AI-generated films of themselves and their friends using identity-verified “cameos.”
Sora 2, OpenAI’s much-awaited next-generation AI video-generating model, and a stand-alone social media app mark the company’s most audacious foray into consumer-facing AI entertainment yet. After completing identity verification, users can insert themselves and approved pals into AI-generated videos thanks to the groundbreaking “cameos” function that was announced Tuesday.
What is Sora 2? The Next Generation of AI Video
Sora 2 represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor, addressing key limitations that plagued earlier AI video models. Although the original Sora occasionally had trouble with realistic physics, as evidenced by things changing abruptly or basketballs bouncing strangely, OpenAI asserts that Sora 2 “is better about obeying the laws of physics.”
With the help of comprehensive language prompts that specify subjects, settings, motion, camera styles, and even certain audio needs, the improved model can produce 10-second vertical movies with synchronized audio. Though there are still a few little flaws, such as objects periodically losing their flawless shape, demonstration videos feature amazing photorealistic action sequences, such as gymnastic routines, skating stunts, and cannonball jumps.
The Sora App: A TikTok-Style Platform for AI Content
The companion Sora 2 app creates a dedicated social ecosystem for AI-generated content, featuring:
- A vertical video feed with swipe-to-scroll navigation similar to TikTok
- Algorithmic recommendations based on user interactions and interests
- “Steerable ranking” for personalized content discovery
- Remix functionality to build upon others’ creations
- Direct messaging for private video sharing
Every video on this app is created by AI; unlike other social media sites, it does not permit the uploading of footage from camera rolls or other apps. As of right now, the platform is only compatible with iOS; Android compatibility will be added later.
Revolutionary “Cameos” Feature and Identity Verification
The standout feature of the Sora 2 ecosystem is undoubtedly “cameos,” which enables users to insert verified likenesses into generated videos. The process requires:
- A one-time video and audio recording for identity verification
- Opt-in consent for using one’s likeness
- Person-by-person approval for friends to use your cameo
- Ability to revoke access and remove videos at any time
“This feature also allows users to share their ‘cameos’ with their friends, allowing them to give other users permission to include their likeness in videos that they generate, including videos of multiple people together,” OpenAI explained in their announcement.
Sora 2 Release Date, Availability, and Cost
Release date: The model and app launched on September 30, 2025, with limited availability.
Is Sora 2 free? Yes, the platform is free at launch, though OpenAI plans to charge for extra video generations during periods of high demand to manage computing resources.
Current availability:
- iOS app available in U.S. and Canada initially
- Invite-only access during initial rollout
- ChatGPT Pro users get priority access to Sora 2 Pro model
- UK, EU, and Australia not included at launch
Sora 2 vs Veo 3: The AI Video Landscape Heats Up
The launch positions Sora 2 in direct competition with other major AI video platforms:
Sora 2 vs. Veo 3: While Google’s Veo 3 has been integrated into YouTube for creator tools, Sora 2 takes a different approach by building a dedicated social platform. Sora 2 emphasizes social features and identity verification, whereas Veo 3 focuses on professional content creation within existing platforms.
Meta recently launched “Vibes” in its Meta AI app, while TikTok has taken a more cautious approach, explicitly banning certain types of AI-generated content that could be misleading or harmful.
Safety Measures and Content Moderation
OpenAI has implemented multiple safety features acknowledging the potential risks of AI-generated video:
- All videos include visible moving watermarks and C2PA metadata
- Content moderation blocks unsafe material before generation
- Expanded the human moderator team to review for bullying
- Teen accounts are subject to parental controls and time limits
- Age verification during onboarding
- Ability to control whether ChatGPT memories influence recommendations
“At creation, guardrails seek to block unsafe content before it’s made—including sexual material, terrorist propaganda, and self-harm promotion,” OpenAI stated in a safety blog post.
FAQs
Sora 2 is OpenAI’s latest AI video and audio generation model that creates photorealistic videos from text prompts, featuring improved physics and new social capabilities.
While Sora 2 has its own dedicated app, ChatGPT Pro users gain access to the more advanced Sora 2 Pro model through their existing accounts.
Yes, the basic service is free; however, OpenAI may charge for additional video generations during high-demand periods to manage computing resources.
The model and app launched on September 30, 2025, with a gradual rollout continuing through late 2025.
The Sora 2 app is currently available on the iOS App Store for users in the U.S. and Canada, with Android and web versions coming later.
Sora 2 focuses on social entertainment with identity verification features, while Veo 3 integrates with YouTube for professional content creation. Both represent cutting-edge AI video technology with different use cases.
The model can struggle with complex physics, multiple people speaking simultaneously, rapid camera movements, and maintaining perfect object consistency in some scenarios.
The launch of Sora 2 and its accompanying social platform represents OpenAI’s most ambitious consumer product to date, potentially reshaping how people create and interact with AI-generated content while raising important questions about digital identity and content moderation in the AI era.
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