OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, has officially launched its viral AI video generator app, Sora, on the Android platform. The move significantly broadens the accessibility of the text-to-video tool, which was previously exclusive to iOS users and operated on an invite-only basis.
From iOS Exclusive to Android Availability
Initially rolled out on Apple’s App Store in September, Sora quickly became one of the most downloaded free apps. The new Android version removes the previous barriers to entry, such as invite codes or waitlists, allowing for immediate download and use.
However, the launch is geographically limited for now. According to a statement from Sora head Bill Peebles, the app is available in the United States, Canada, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. While OpenAI is planning a future expansion into Europe, a timeline for its availability in the MENA region has not yet been announced.
Features and Generation Limits
Sora functions as both a creation tool and a social platform, featuring a TikTok-style feed where users can share their AI-generated videos. The core functionality allows users to generate short videos from simple text prompts.
A notable feature called “Cameos” enables users to upload a picture of themselves and place it into an AI-generated background after a one-time identity verification process. The app also personalizes suggestions based on user activity, location, and ChatGPT history.
Usage is tiered, with ChatGPT Pro subscribers able to generate up to 100 videos every 24 hours, while free and Plus users are limited to 30 videos per day.
Implications for the MENA Tech Ecosystem
The expansion of powerful generative AI tools like Sora holds significant implications for the MENA region’s burgeoning tech and creative industries. For marketers, content creators, and startups in cities like Dubai, Riyadh, and Cairo, Sora represents a powerful new tool for rapid, low-cost video production for social media campaigns and digital advertising.
The arrival of such advanced technology also poses a competitive challenge to regional AI startups, pushing them to innovate and find unique value propositions tailored to local market needs, such as superior Arabic language processing and cultural nuance. Furthermore, it will likely accelerate conversations among regional regulators about the ethical use of AI, particularly concerning the creation of realistic deepfakes and potential copyright issues.
About OpenAI
OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company based in San Francisco. Its mission is to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI)—AI systems that are generally smarter than humans—benefits all of humanity. The company is known for developing large-scale AI models such as GPT-4 and DALL-E.
Source: Tech in Asia
