OpenAI launches Images 2.6 with GIF creation and faster image generation

OpenAI has released Images 2.6, the latest version of its image generation tools, across ChatGPT, Codex and its developer API. The update adds the ability to make animated GIFs and promises faster image creation.

The company said its image offerings now handle over 4 billion pictures weekly, or more than 500 million a day. Users can animate uploaded photos or create a GIF from a text prompt. They can also change playback speed and edit individual frames.

The update lets users save reference images of people, pets and characters and reuse them later. This is meant to help keep a character or subject looking the same across several images.

On the developer side, OpenAI has introduced two models, GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst. The company said both are built to generate images faster. The API also adds image markup, SVG exports and a new control for the complexity of generated images.

OpenAI's earlier Images 2.5 update had already cut image generation time by up to 50 per cent compared with the previous version. The new release continues that push for speed and better consistency when users make several rounds of edits.

OpenAI has not said how much faster Images 2.6 is than its predecessor in every case. Pricing for the new API models is not yet known. Users who want GIF creation will need to check whether it is available on their ChatGPT plan.