OpenAI Launches Sora Social App, Invite Codes Required for Access
Key Points
- OpenAI launches Sora, an AI‑focused social media app for iOS.
- Access requires an invite code; rollout begins in the United States and Canada.
- Paying ChatGPT Pro users receive priority for invite codes.
- Each new user gets four additional codes to share with friends.
- All videos on Sora are AI‑generated, with a platform disclaimer.
- OpenAI plans to expand Sora to more regions soon.
- A copyright lawsuit by Ziff Davis is noted in the platform’s disclosure.
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a new social media platform built around AI‑generated video content. The iOS‑only app is currently in a limited rollout for users in the United States and Canada, with access granted through invite codes. Existing paying Pro users receive priority, and each new user receives four additional codes to share. The platform emphasizes that all videos are AI‑generated and includes a disclaimer to that effect. OpenAI plans to expand Sora to more regions soon, while noting a concurrent copyright lawsuit involving Ziff Davis.
OpenAI Expands Into Social Media With Sora
OpenAI, the creator of the ChatGPT chatbot, announced a new social media platform called Sora, named after its AI video‑generation tool. Unlike traditional networks, Sora is designed to showcase AI‑generated videos exclusively, and the platform’s own disclaimer states that none of the content is authentic human‑recorded footage.
Sora is currently available as a free iOS app on the Apple App Store, identified by a navy and white cloud icon. Access to the service is not open to the public; users must obtain an invite code to create an account. OpenAI is distributing codes gradually, beginning with a rollout in the United States and Canada. The company has indicated that paying ChatGPT Pro subscribers will receive priority access.
How to Obtain an Invite Code
Prospective users can download the Sora app, log in with their ChatGPT credentials, and select the option to be notified when access opens. After opting in, they will receive a push notification containing an invite code. Once the code is entered, the user can complete the account setup and begin using Sora on both the mobile app and the Sora.com website.
Each new user also receives four additional invite codes, which can be shared with friends, helping to extend the platform’s user base in a controlled manner.
Platform Features and Intent
Sora is marketed as a way for friends and family to connect through AI‑generated video content. The platform’s design encourages users to explore the creative possibilities of AI video generation while making it clear that the content is synthetic. OpenAI’s messaging emphasizes that Sora is built for real humans, even though the media they share is entirely artificial.
Legal Context
In a disclosure note, OpenAI references a lawsuit filed by Ziff Davis, the parent company of CNET, alleging that OpenAI infringed its copyrights in training and operating its AI systems. This legal matter is mentioned without further detail in the announcement.
Future Outlook
OpenAI has indicated that the initial rollout will expand quickly to additional countries after the early‑stage distribution in the United States and Canada. The company’s strategy appears to focus on leveraging its existing user base, particularly paying subscribers, to seed the new platform before broader public adoption.