OpenAI has officially launched Sora, its AI-powered video generation app, for Android users in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The expansion follows Sora’s successful debut on iOS in September, where it quickly became a viral sensation, topping the App Store charts with over one million downloads in its first week. With its entry into the Google Play Store, OpenAI expects a significant boost in global adoption, as Android users make up the majority of the mobile market in Asia and beyond.
The Android version mirrors the iOS app’s key features, including “Cameos,” which allows users to create AI-generated videos of themselves performing various actions using their likeness. These videos can be shared in a social feed similar to TikTok, enabling users to discover, like, and remix others’ creations. This social-driven model signals OpenAI’s broader ambition to compete directly with short-form video giants like TikTok, Instagram, and Meta’s newly launched AI video platform, Vibes, by blending generative AI creativity with social engagement.
Despite its popularity, Sora has faced notable controversies since its launch. Users initially exploited the app to generate disrespectful depictions of historical figures, including Martin Luther King Jr., prompting OpenAI to suspend such content and implement stricter moderation systems. The company also revised its policy on the use of copyrighted characters — such as SpongeBob and Pikachu — switching from an “opt-out” model to an “opt-in” approach for rights holders. In addition, OpenAI is currently in a trademark dispute with celebrity video app Cameo over the use of the name “Cameos” for Sora’s signature feature.
Looking forward, OpenAI plans to roll out several new features to enhance user creativity and safety. Upcoming updates will allow users to create character cameos featuring pets and inanimate objects, as well as introduce basic video editing capabilities like stitching multiple clips together. OpenAI also intends to refine Sora’s social feed, enabling users to curate their viewing experience around selected creators rather than a mass audience. These developments underscore OpenAI’s push to position Sora as not just an AI video tool, but a new kind of social platform blending creativity, personalization, and responsible AI use