--- title: "OpenAI Unveils Images 2.6: ChatGPT Learns to Create Animated GIFs and Boosts Generation Speed by 50%" description: "OpenAI has introduced the Images 2.6 model: ChatGPT now creates animated GIFs from text prompts or photos, has increased generation speed by 50%, and produces over 4 billion images per week." date: 2026-11-05T11:19:30.872Z lang: en url: https://xab.info/en/posts/openai-images-2-6-animated-gifs-chatgpt tags: [openai, chatgpt, image-generation, gif-animation, ai, images-2-6] author: "Alexander Buran, Roman V." publisher: "XAB.info" --- # OpenAI Unveils Images 2.6: ChatGPT Learns to Create Animated GIFs and Boosts Generation Speed by 50% ![User working at a computer in ChatGPT to create an animation from a whale image](https://xab.info/media/2026/11/05/openai-images-2-6-gif-animatsiya-chatgpt/openai-images-2-6-gif-animatsiya-chatgpt-1.webp) ## Key Points - OpenAI updated its image generation model to Images 2.6 with animated GIF support - Generation speed increased by 50%, with users creating over 4 billion images weekly - Two API models available for developers: Flare (speed) and Sunburst (quality) - The feature is available globally for all ChatGPT and Codex subscribers on all platforms 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. ## Fact-Check & Sources - [OpenAI добавила GIF в ChatGPT: теперь ИИ может оживлять картинки и мемы](https://www.rbc.ua/ukr/news/openai-dodala-gif-chatgpt-teper-shi-mozhe-1793873776.html) - Original source with full function, pricing, and statistics description - [ChatGPT позволил создавать GIF-анимацию](https://unn.ua/ru/news/chatgpt-razreshil-sozdavat-gif-animatsiyu) - Confirms announcement date (Nov 5 on X), Images 2.6 model, and frame editing capabilities - [ChatGPT научился создавать GIF-анимации по текстовому запросу и фото](https://www.ixbt.com/live/sw/chatgpt-nauchilsya-sozdavat-gif-animacii-po-tekstovomu-zaprosu-i-foto.html) - Confirms 4B images/week, growth from 3B in Sept, and built-in editor - [Сегодня ChatGPT наконец-то может создавать GIF! Images 2.6 внезапно запущен](https://www.chaincatcher.com/ru/article/2301942) - Confirms 50% speed increase and availability of Flare and Sunburst models ## FAQ ### What is new in Images 2.6 compared to the previous version? The main innovation is support for creating animated GIF files from text prompts or uploaded images. Additionally, generation speed has increased by 50%, a built-in frame editor with animation speed control has been added, and users can now save reference images for reuse. ### How much does image generation cost via the API? Pricing: $5 per 1 million input text tokens, $8 per 1 million image tokens, and $30 per 1 million generated image tokens. Total cost per generation ranges from $0.025 to $0.053 depending on quality settings. ### Who can access the new feature? The Images 2.6 model is globally available to all ChatGPT and Codex subscribers across all tariff plans on web, desktop, and mobile devices. ### What is the difference between Flare and Sunburst models? Flare is focused on maximum speed, generating low-quality images in 6 seconds. Sunburst provides high precision, detail, and consistency for characters and objects throughout the editing process.