The team responsible for ChatGPT has introduced the Sora social media app, aiming to capture the interest of users currently engrossed in short-form video content on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Meta’s Instagram and Facebook. Launched on Tuesday, the new app for iPhone allows users to create a wide range of imaginative videos, spanning from anime-inspired to hyper-realistic styles.
While the popularity of AI-generated videos continues to rise, concerns have emerged regarding the overwhelming presence of such content on social media platforms. These AI-powered videos have advanced significantly, with some even deceiving viewers. For instance, a recent video depicting the CN Tower on fire went viral on Facebook, leaving many viewers shocked as they mistook it for a real event. From innocent videos of bunnies on trampolines to elaborate deepfakes of wildfires, AI-generated content has been successful in tricking social media audiences.
The official launch video of the Sora app showcases an AI-generated portrayal of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in surreal settings like a psychedelic forest, the moon, and a stadium filled with cheering fans watching rubber duck races. Initially available exclusively on Apple devices in the U.S. and Canada, the app promises a personalized experience, recommending videos based on users’ preferences.
Meta, on the other hand, recently introduced its own collection of AI-powered short-form videos through the Meta AI app. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared a variety of AI videos, featuring cartoon versions of himself, playful creatures, and cute animals engaging in different activities.
Both Sora and Meta’s Vibes are designed to offer tailored content suggestions based on users’ interactions. However, concerns have been raised about the prevalence of AI-generated content overshadowing authentic creativity and accurate information on social media platforms.
OpenAI has acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the importance of user well-being, stating that they will periodically assess users’ feedback and provide options to customize their feed. Additionally, Sora allows users to incorporate copyrighted material in their videos, a move that may raise objections from copyright holders, such as television and movie studios.
To address potential copyright issues, OpenAI has held discussions with various copyright holders and implemented measures to prevent unauthorized use of public figures’ likeness within the app. Users are required to undergo a verification process, including a “liveness check,” before incorporating others’ images in their AI-generated videos.
