OpenAI has officially announced the shutdown of its AI video generator, Sora, just six months after its public launch in late 2024. The app, which quickly rose to become the No. 1 application on Apple’s app store, allowed users to create hyper-realistic videos featuring over 200 licensed Disney characters.
Launched initially as a bonus for ChatGPT Pro and Plus users in December 2024, Sora expanded its offerings with the release of Sora 2 and a stand-alone app in September 2025. However, the service faced significant backlash due to its ability to generate violent and racist content, as well as deepfakes and misinformation.
In a statement regarding the closure, OpenAI expressed gratitude to its users: “We’re saying goodbye to Sora. To everyone who created with Sora, shared it, and built community around it: thank you.” The decision to shut down Sora comes just three months after a $1 billion deal with Disney, which allowed Sora users to create content featuring beloved Disney characters.
Disney’s spokesperson commented on the situation, saying, “As the nascent AI field advances rapidly, we respect OpenAI’s decision to exit the video generation business and to shift its priorities elsewhere.” This closure raises questions about the future of Disney’s investment in OpenAI and the implications for their partnership.
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, indicated that while Sora is being discontinued, the organization is not exiting the AI video business entirely, suggesting a potential pivot in focus. The company has also promised to provide more information about the shutdown timeline and how users can preserve their created videos.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Sora’s shutdown will likely resonate within the industry. Observers are keenly awaiting further details from OpenAI regarding the transition and what new directions the company may take in video generation technology.
For now, Sora’s users are left grappling with the sudden loss of a platform that allowed for creative expression and community building. OpenAI’s commitment to sharing more information in the coming days may help alleviate some concerns, but the disappointment remains palpable among its user base.