OpenAI to Shutter Sora Video App

The move follows rising concerns over convincing deepfake videos that grew with the platform's popularity.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 10:21am

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OpenAI is shutting down its AI video-generation app Sora, the company announced on March 24. The move comes amid growing concerns over the rise of convincing deepfake videos that proliferated on the platform. OpenAI first introduced Sora in 2024, allowing users to create and share AI-generated videos, but advocacy groups and industry voices warned that such tools could flood the internet with misleading content.

Why it matters

The closure of Sora highlights the broader challenges posed by the rapid advancement of AI-powered video generation technology. As these tools become more accessible, there are growing concerns about the potential for abuse, including the creation of deepfake videos that could be used to spread misinformation or manipulate public opinion, especially during critical events like elections.

The details

OpenAI launched the standalone Sora app in September 2025, allowing users to create and share AI-generated videos. However, the rise of these tools prompted warnings from advocacy groups, academics, and entertainment industry voices that they could be used to create convincing deepfakes. A study found that AI-generated images and clips were present in 21% of 500 short-form videos screened, with some channels amassing millions of subscribers and billions of views.

  • OpenAI first introduced Sora in early 2024.
  • OpenAI launched the standalone Sora app in September 2025.
  • In October 2025, OpenAI decided to block 'disrespectful' AI-generated deepfake videos depicting the likeness of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in its Sora app.
  • In March 2025, the Brennan Center for Justice warned that AI videos could have serious impacts on future voting cycles.
  • On March 24, 2026, OpenAI announced it was shutting down the Sora video app.

The players

OpenAI

An artificial intelligence company that developed the Sora video generation app.

AARP

A nonprofit and advocacy group for Americans aged 50 and older that warned about the rise of 'AI slop' videos making it difficult for some users to 'detect what is real'.

Brennan Center for Justice

A nonpartisan law and policy institute that warned in March 2025 that AI videos could have serious impacts on future voting cycles.

Disney

A media and entertainment conglomerate that announced a $1 billion deal with OpenAI to use its iconic characters for short, AI-generated videos.

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The takeaway

The closure of OpenAI's Sora video app highlights the broader challenges posed by the rapid advancement of AI-powered video generation technology. As these tools become more accessible, there are growing concerns about the potential for abuse, including the creation of deepfake videos that could be used to spread misinformation or manipulate public opinion, especially during critical events like elections.