Overview
- OpenAI, which disclosed the Sora shutdown on March 24, set April 26 for the app’s closure and September 24 for the API’s end.
- The decision unwound Disney’s planned $1 billion partnership that would have licensed 200-plus characters for user-made videos and new Disney+ experiences.
- Altman said he phoned Bob Iger and briefed new CEO Josh D’Amaro, and he added that both sides are exploring other ways to work together.
- Altman framed the move as reallocating limited compute to next‑generation AI agents and enterprise products rather than a consumer video app.
- Reports highlight weak unit economics and Hollywood copyright complaints, with users falling below 500,000 and compute costs near $1 million per day.