OpenAI's ChatGPT Images 2.6 adds native GIFs and 50% faster image models
Rolling out globally in ChatGPT and Codex with frame-level GIF edits; GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst hit the API as weekly image volume tops 4 billion.
Why it matters
Native GIF generation closes a gap ChatGPT users filled with workarounds, and frame-level speed controls make the feature usable for product and social workflows rather than one-off demos. Flare and Sunburst arriving on the API with a claimed 50% speed-up matter for apps that already call image models at volume; OpenAI says weekly image generation across ChatGPT and the API now exceeds 4 billion, up from 3 billion in September. Watch how GIF safety filters behave on uploaded photos and whether API latency matches the consumer claim.
Key facts
- Images 2.6 rolling out globally in ChatGPT and Codex
- Native GIF creation from text or uploaded photos
- Users can change playback speed and edit individual frames
- GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst launching on the API
- OpenAI cites 50% faster image generation
- Weekly image volume said to exceed 4 billion, up from 3 billion in September