OpenAI has announced it will discontinue its Sora video generation application, marking a shift away from video-based products towards productivity-focused tools.
The decision also coincides with Disney withdrawing from a previously announced $1 billion investment and licensing agreement linked to the platform, according to Reuters.
The company confirmed the move in a statement shared on X, saying it is “saying goodbye” to the Sora app and thanking users who created and shared content using the tool.
OpenAI added that further details, including timelines for the app, its API, and options for preserving user work, will be provided soon.
According to Reuters report, the shutdown forms part of a broader strategic pivot. OpenAI plans to reduce its focus on video-generation models, including discontinuing developer access and removing video capabilities from ChatGPT.
Instead, the company aims to prioritise productivity tools, including an integrated desktop “superapp” combining ChatGPT, Codex, and the Atlas browser.
Sora gained significant attention after its launch last year for its ability to generate realistic videos. However, it also raised copyright concerns, as users created content featuring third-party intellectual property without permission.
OpenAI later introduced measures to address such issues, but concerns persisted, including objections from several Japanese studios.
Disney had earlier agreed to invest $1 billion in OpenAI and license its characters for use within Sora. Following the platform’s discontinuation, the company has withdrawn from the deal, according to reports.
