News in Short
- OpenAI Images 2.6 brings 50% faster image generation to ChatGPT, Codex and the API.
- The update adds GIF creation, improved editing precision and better consistency across revisions.
- Images 2.6 is available globally across ChatGPT subscription tiers, while Flare and Sunburst are available through the API.
OpenAI has introduced Images 2.6, an image-generation update designed to speed up creative work and improve editing control. The model is rolling out across ChatGPT, Codex and the API, with support for animated GIFs among its headline additions.
OpenAI says people now create four billion images each week across its products. That works out to more than half a billion images every day on average. Images 2.6 aims to help users create polished visuals faster while preserving important details during editing.
Images 2.6 promises 50% faster generation
OpenAI says Images 2.6 generates images 50% faster than its predecessor. The company is also offering two API variants: GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst.
Flare focuses on speed. At low quality settings, it can generate an image in as little as six seconds. OpenAI says it also improves layout quality for posters, product imagery and other professional visuals.
Sunburst targets work that needs more detail and precision. At medium or high quality settings, it provides higher-quality generation and greater consistency across edits. Users can also adjust complexity, which controls how much planning the model applies to a request.
GIF creation and more precise editing
Images 2.6 can turn image ideas into animated GIFs. Creators can make looping reactions, animate brand mascots or build animated storyboards to test character movement before video production.
OpenAI says even a simple sketch can become an animated character. The company highlights potential uses across social media, games, videos and product communication. Startup Town, for example, used the API to explore animated characters for its AI work assistant.
The update also brings image markup to the API, allowing developers to point to specific areas for changes. SVG exports can help teams prepare designs for websites, apps and print. Image quality and complexity settings provide separate controls for visual fidelity and scene planning.
Global availability across ChatGPT tiers
Images 2.6 is available globally in ChatGPT and Codex across all subscription tiers, on desktop, mobile and the web. GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst are available through the API. OpenAI directs developers to its API pricing page for usage costs.
With faster generation, animated output and more targeted editing, Images 2.6 gives creators and developers additional ways to move from an initial idea to finished visual content.
