On November 5, 2026, OpenAI announced a major update to its image generation model, moving to version Images 2.6. A key new feature is support for creating animated GIF files: users can now transform text prompts or uploaded photos into full-fledged animations within ChatGPT. The model was unveiled on November 4, with the global rollout for all users occurring the following day. According to the company, the updated tool can turn even a simple hand-drawn sketch into an expressive animated character, unlocking new opportunities for marketers, designers, and social media content creators.

Animated GIFs: From Prompt to Final GIF

Previously, ChatGPT could not create GIF files directly in a single step. Now, after generation—for example, via the prompt "make a GIF of a dancing cat"—the user gains access to an integrated editor. In this editor, one can adjust the animation speed, preview and edit individual frames, and share the result immediately. Additionally, users can save reference images of themselves, pets, or characters for reuse in new projects without having to upload them every time. For brands and marketers, this means the ability to animate mascots, create reaction GIFs and memes for social media, and develop animated storyboards without needing external animators.

Speed and Scale: 4 Billion Images Per Week

Image generation speed in the new version has increased by 50% compared to previous benchmarks. OpenAI also shared impressive statistics: currently, users worldwide generate over 4 billion images per week, averaging more than 500 million works daily. For comparison, as recently as September 2026, the company reported 3 billion generations per week, highlighting the rapid growth in demand for generative multimedia tools.

Two Models for Developers: Flare and Sunburst

For API developers, two versions of the model with different characteristics are offered. GPT-Image-2.6 Flare is focused on maximum speed and can generate a low-quality image in just 6 seconds. The second modification, Sunburst, ensures high precision, detail, and character and object consistency at any stage of refinement. This allows developers to choose between prototyping speed and final result quality based on their specific needs.

Availability and Pricing

The Images 2.6 model is available globally for all ChatGPT and Codex subscribers across desktop, mobile, and web platforms, regardless of the subscription tier. For developers using the tool via API, pricing remains based on tokens: $5 per 1 million input text tokens, $8 per 1 million image tokens, and $30 per 1 million generated image tokens. The total cost of a single generation varies from $0.025 for a basic low-quality image to $0.053 for high-detail work, depending on chosen settings.

Context: Where Generative AI Is Heading

The Images 2.6 update with animation support fits logically into the overall trajectory of generative model development: from static pictures to moving images and, eventually, full-length video. The integrated frame editor and animation speed controls suggest that OpenAI is laying the groundwork for more complex multimedia pipelines directly within ChatGPT. For the end user, this means creating content for social media, presentations, or advertising campaigns is becoming even more accessible without the need for specialized software.