OpenAI has announced the shutdown of its AI video generator, Sora, just over six months after its public launch in late 2024. The decision comes as Sora had rapidly ascended to become the No. 1 app on Apple’s app store following its release.
Initially launched as a bonus for ChatGPT Pro and Plus users in December 2024, Sora allowed users to create hyper-realistic videos featuring over 200 licensed Disney characters. However, the platform faced significant criticism for generating violent and racist content, as well as deepfakes and misinformation.
In September 2025, OpenAI introduced Sora 2 and a stand-alone app, further enhancing the user experience. Despite these advancements, the company has decided to pivot away from the video generation business, leading to the termination of Sora.
Following the shutdown, Disney has exited a $1 billion deal with OpenAI, which had enabled Sora users to utilize its vast array of beloved characters. A Disney spokesperson acknowledged the decision, stating, “As the nascent AI field advances rapidly, we respect OpenAI’s decision to exit the video generation business and to shift its priorities elsewhere.”
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, expressed gratitude to the Sora community, saying, “We’re saying goodbye to Sora. To everyone who created with Sora, shared it, and built community around it: thank you.” He also noted that more information regarding the shutdown timeline and how to preserve user-created videos would be shared soon.
The closure of Sora raises questions about the future of OpenAI’s relationship with Disney and the implications for their investment in AI technologies. Despite this setback, OpenAI has indicated that it is not exiting the AI video business entirely but is instead shifting its focus.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, observers are left to ponder what new opportunities may arise from this transition. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the next steps for both OpenAI and Disney in the realm of AI video generation.
