What Is Sora?

Sora is OpenAI’s newest social media offering, designed around the concept that every video on the platform is generated by artificial intelligence. The app’s disclaimer states that none of the content is authentic, positioning Sora as a novel experiment in AI‑driven entertainment. Users can explore AI‑created clips, share them, and interact with others in a space that blends social networking with cutting‑edge generative technology.

Access and Rollout

Unlike typical app releases, Sora is not open to the general public. Prospective users must first download the app from the Apple App Store, identified by a navy‑and‑white cloud icon, and sign in with their existing ChatGPT account or an alternative login. After logging in, users tap a “Notify me when access opens” option and enable push notifications. OpenAI has announced that the initial rollout targets the United States and Canada, with plans to expand quickly to additional countries.

Access is being prioritized for OpenAI’s paying Pro users. When a Pro subscriber receives an invite code, they can complete account setup and begin using Sora on either the mobile app or the web portal. Each new user is granted four additional invite codes, allowing them to invite friends and grow the early community.

OpenAI’s launch strategy emphasizes exclusivity and controlled growth, aiming to test the platform’s performance and user experience before a broader release. The company’s communications suggest a rapid expansion timeline once the initial phase proves successful.

Legal Context

The release of Sora occurs against the backdrop of a legal dispute. Ziff Davis, the parent company of CNET, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI alleging that the AI giant infringed its copyrights while training and operating its AI systems. This disclosure is included in OpenAI’s rollout communications, highlighting ongoing tensions in the AI industry regarding data usage and intellectual property rights.

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