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OpenAI Shuts Down Sora as Costs Bite, Pivots to New Flagship Model

The shutdown reflects a push to free scarce chips for a higher‑return model before an IPO.

Overview

  • OpenAI confirmed it is ending its Sora video app and said it will share timelines for the app and API along with steps for users to secure their projects.
  • Reporting from multiple outlets says Sora racked up roughly $1 million per day in operating costs, with video generation consuming far more GPUs, power, and cooling than text or code models.
  • The company is redeploying compute and staff, shifting chips to a new model called Spud and moving the Sora team into longer‑term robotics research.
  • A planned tie‑up with Disney has effectively halted, and a Disney spokesperson said the company respects OpenAI’s decision to exit video generation.
  • The pullback from consumer video fits a broader shift toward enterprise and coding tools ahead of a potential IPO targeted for late 2026, according to CNBC and other reports.