OpenAI's GPT-Image-2.6 model brings 50% faster image generation, animated GIFs, and improved editing

OpenAI’s image generation model has just received another major upgrade. The company has announced GPT-Image-2.6 across ChatGPT, Codex, and its API, which brings faster image creation and more precise editing. But there is one addition that stands out. You can now turn your ideas into animated GIFs using a single prompt.

GPT-Image-2.6 makes image generation 50% faster

In the official announcement, OpenAI says the new image model generates images 50% faster than its predecessor, GPT-Image-2.5. The company has also announced two API variants, GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst.

Flare focuses on speed and layout quality for posters, product imagery, and professional visuals. At low quality settings, developers can generate images in as little as six seconds.

Sunburst takes a different approach and prioritizies higher-quality results and better consistency across editing rounds. This could be handy for creators working with recurring characters, products, and brand assets.

Worth noting that OpenAI says people now generate around four billion images weekly across ChatGPT, Codex, and the API. That translates to more than half a billion images every day.

GIF creation and more precise editing

The native GIF creation has to be the highlight of the new image generation model. You can generate animated sequences from prompts, including reactions, character movements, product loops, and brand mascots.

OpenAI also says even simple sketches can become animated characters. This could give creators another way to develop storyboards, social media content, and visual campaigns without starting from polished artwork.

For developers, GPT-Image-2.6 brings image markup to the API. This allows users identify specific areas requiring edits. SVG exports also make designs easier to reuse across websites, applications, and print projects.

Not to forget, a new complexity setting controls how much planning the model performs. Developers can choose lower settings for quick edits or higher settings for more complicated scenes.

GPT-Image-2.6 is available globally across ChatGPT and Codex subscription tiers. The Flare and Sunburst variants are also available through the API.