OpenAI's viral Sora app is finally available on Android

OpenAI has officially expanded access to its AI-driven video generation app, Sora, for Android users. Initially unveiled during the launch of the Sora 2 model in September, the app had previously been exclusive to iPhone users. On Tuesday, OpenAI announced that Sora is now available for download on the Google Play Store for users in several countries, including the U.S., Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. However, fans in India will have to wait longer, as OpenAI has not provided a timeline for when the app will be accessible in this significant market. Sora made waves shortly after its release, amassing over 1 million downloads in less than five days and maintaining a top position in the App Store rankings for nearly three weeks. Currently, it ranks fifth on the Apple App Store, trailing behind other popular apps like ChatGPT and Gemini. The app allows users to transform text or images into engaging 60-second videos with auto-generated soundtracks, leveraging the capabilities of the new Sora 2 model. Android users will enjoy all the same features as their iOS counterparts, including the innovative ‘Cameos’ feature, which enables users to create videos of themselves or involve friends in AI-generated content. Additional features include remixing existing videos, applying various styles, and sharing the final creations directly to other social media platforms. Free-tier users can access basic video generation, while ChatGPT Plus subscribers can unlock longer video options and enjoy quicker processing times. However, the app's popularity has sparked concerns regarding deepfakes and copyright infringement. Following its launch, OpenAI faced backlash after users created inappropriate deepfakes of Martin Luther King Jr., leading them to pause video generations involving his likeness upon request from the King estate. In response to the controversies, OpenAI initially adopted an ‘opt-out’ policy allowing copyrighted content usage unless rights holders requested removal. After receiving significant criticism, the company has shifted to an ‘opt-in’ system to better protect creators' rights.