OpenAI has officially integrated GIF generation into ChatGPT and its coding companion, Codex. Powered by the newly released Images 2.6 model, the feature allows users to generate animations from text prompts, static images, or rough sketches. The update is currently rolling out globally across all subscription tiers for both platforms. Images 2.6 was officially unveiled on Wednesday.
Functionality and Editing Tools
The new capability enables users to describe the specific GIF they wish to create or upload existing images to be animated. For those starting with a concept, the model can take a rough drawing and generate a more complete version before applying animation. Once a GIF is created, users have the ability to adjust the animation speed and perform edits on individual frames. OpenAI noted that the system can save uploaded pictures, allowing users to reuse them as prompts for future generations. This detail regarding saved prompts was previously shared by the company in a since-deleted post on X.
Distinguishing Tool Limits from Video Generation
While the new tool introduces movement, OpenAI emphasized that Images 2.6 is not an AI video generator. This focus on still-image evolution follows the company’s decision to discontinue its Sora video generation app earlier this year, which reportedly had few users and lost roughly $1 million per day.
Alongside the GIF functionality, OpenAI has optimized the performance of its visual generation suite. The company claims that Images 2.6 generates images 50 percent faster than its predecessor, Images 2.5. For users requiring high-speed output, the company’s GPT-Image-2.6 Flare model can produce an image in approximately six seconds when set to low quality. Both the Flare and Sunburst variations of the model are now available through the company’s API.
More on Images
Images, upgraded—introducing ChatGPT Images 2.6. Now with GIFs and reference images. Plus, two new models are coming to the API with 50% faster image generation. pic.twitter.com/kcuOhTipYR
GIFS! With ChatGPT Images 2.6, turn a prompt or image into an animated GIF. Adjust the speed, edit individual frames, and share it on repeat. pic.twitter.com/i4hsLoapx3
