OpenAI has introduced an innovative AI model designed to generate videos from text, referred to as Sora.
First unveiled earlier this year, Sora has since evolved from beta to an enhanced version named Sora Turbo.
OpenAI’s Sora Enables Video Generation from Text, Images, and Clips
A defining feature of this video creator is its user-friendly interface, which resembles other AI systems that generate images. Users can provide a text prompt detailing their desired video content, and Sora will produce the video as requested. Moreover, users have the option to upload images and video files to enrich their projects.
Sora Turbo offers capabilities to modify, eliminate, and reinterpret videos according to user choices. It is equipped with a timeline editor, known as the Storyboard, where users can trim, rearrange scenes, create loops, or merge two clips into one cohesive piece. Additionally, users can produce videos from a series of images and utilize preset styles and filters to customize their creations. Videos generated using Sora can be viewed on OpenAI’s official website.
The maximum duration for a video generated by Sora is 20 seconds. However, there are specific limitations associated with the service. All produced videos will include a watermark, and there are stringent regulations that restrict the generation of illegal, explicit, or violent content. Notably, access to Sora is not available for free users and necessitates a ChatGPT subscription. Let’s delve into the details.
Costs and Restrictions of OpenAI Sora
OpenAI has introduced a ChatGPT Pro subscription priced at $200 per month, which may appear high but is somewhat defendable given the features offered. Alternatively, the ChatGPT Plus subscription is priced at $20 monthly. Plus subscribers are awarded 1,000 credits for Sora, enabling the creation of up to 50 Priority videos, though Relaxed videos are excluded. Those subscribing to ChatGPT Pro receive 500 Priority videos (10,000 credits) and unlimited Relaxed videos, with the added advantage of downloading videos without watermarks.
You may be interested in understanding the differences between Priority Videos and Relaxed Videos, as well as the concept of Sora credits. In essence, credits function as a currency for generating Priority videos. For Pro users, creating a 20-second video in 1080p square resolution costs 1,000 credits, while Plus users can only create 720p videos lasting five seconds.
Relaxed videos, conversely, do not utilize credits, effectively rendering them free. The distinction between Priority and Relaxed videos is significant; Priority videos are processed more quickly. When users deplete their credits, Sora transitions to Relaxed mode, queuing videos for future processing. Relaxed videos are accessible solely to ChatGPT Pro users, ensuring that server capacity remains manageable.
Moreover, Sora credits cannot be accumulated; they do not carry over to the following month. Once they are exhausted or lapse, they cannot be restored. For more information, OpenAI has a dedicated help page addressing these matters.
Some users may perceive the cost to be excessive for a 20-second video, prompting many to question the applicability of this feature beyond personal slideshows or screensavers. For instance, as both a gamer and a literature lover, I might wish to visualize a fantasy world through video or artwork. However, is that worth a $20 monthly fee? Ultimately, the choice depends on individual financial circumstances and intended usage. Tools like Sora may be particularly appealing to artists and designers.
Sora is not included in the ChatGPT Team, Enterprise, or Edu plans. Users must be at least 18 years old to use the AI. All ChatGPT subscribers can access Sora, except for those in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the European Economic Area.
If you are eager to experience Sora and its functionalities, consider checking OpenAI’s official help section and tutorials or visiting their YouTube channel.
In related developments, Google CEO Sundar Pichai has indicated that the advancement of AI tools seems to have slowed, suggesting that initial straightforward improvements have already been realized. This viewpoint highlights the evolution of AI, moving from basic chatbots to sophisticated systems capable of generating code, composing various types of content, and now creating videos. As conversations regarding advertisements in AI applications intensify, it is clear that significant advancements in AI will require time. But is there a need to hasten AI development? Wouldn’t enhancing existing AI models be a more sensible strategy?
It is essential to prioritize AI moderation. Numerous AI bots exhibit various shortcomings, with the most urgent issue being the spread of misinformation and inaccuracies, alongside concerns about data misuse and potential harm. The technology sector must adopt a cautious viewpoint, re-evaluating the landscape to ensure that AI tools are safe for users.
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