OpenAI is expanding ChatGPT’s creative capabilities with a new feature that allows users to generate animated GIFs directly from text prompts or uploaded photos. The functionality arrives alongside the company’s Images 2.6 model, which also promises faster image generation and improved editing tools across its platforms.
ChatGPT Introduces Built-In Animated GIF Creation
OpenAI has introduced native animated GIF generation in ChatGPT, allowing users to create short animations without relying on separate editing software or third-party applications.
The feature enables users to describe an animation through a text prompt or upload an existing photograph to transform it into a moving image.
Previously, ChatGPT did not support generating animated GIFs natively in a single step. The new capability simplifies the process by combining image creation and animation controls within the chatbot.
In a demonstration shared by OpenAI, a user asks ChatGPT, “can you make a gif of a cat dancing?” The chatbot responds by generating an animated GIF and providing additional customization options.
Users Can Adjust Animation Speed and Edit Individual Frames
Beyond creating GIFs, ChatGPT now includes tools for modifying animations after they have been generated.
Users can adjust playback speed, inspect individual frames and make frame-specific edits directly within the ChatGPT interface.
The update also allows users to share their completed animations with others, making the feature useful for social media posts, digital communications and creative projects.
These capabilities bring additional editing functionality to ChatGPT, reducing the need to switch between multiple applications when producing simple animated content.
OpenAI Images 2.6 Promises Faster Image Generation
The animated GIF feature is part of a broader update powered by OpenAI’s Images 2.6 model.
According to the company, the latest model improves image generation speed, allowing users to produce visual content more quickly.
The improvements come as demand for AI-generated images continues to increase across consumer and developer platforms.
OpenAI reports that users now generate more than 4 billion images each week through ChatGPT and its application programming interface (API).
That represents a substantial increase from the 3 billion images per week the company reported in September 2026.
AI Image Generation Continues to Expand
The growth in weekly image generation highlights the increasing use of generative AI for visual content creation.
ChatGPT’s image tools support a range of activities, including creating illustrations, modifying existing photographs and developing visual materials for online publishing.
Adding animated GIF generation extends those capabilities into basic motion-based content.
For users who regularly create images for websites, presentations or social platforms, the update provides another option for producing and customizing visual assets within a single interface.
Images 2.6 Rolling Out Across ChatGPT and Codex
OpenAI says Images 2.6 is rolling out to all ChatGPT and Codex users across web, desktop and mobile applications.
The expanded availability means users can access the updated image generation capabilities through supported devices as the rollout progresses.
Alongside the consumer-facing improvements, OpenAI is introducing two additional models for developers through its API.
GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst Available Through API
The company is launching GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst, two API offerings designed to provide faster and higher-quality image generation.
These models are intended to support developers building applications and services that incorporate AI-generated visual content.
The additions expand OpenAI’s image generation options beyond ChatGPT, giving developers more tools for integrating visual AI capabilities into their products.
ChatGPT Expands Its Creative Tools Beyond Static Images
The introduction of animated GIF creation marks another step in OpenAI’s efforts to make ChatGPT a broader creative platform.
By combining text-based instructions, image generation and animation editing, the company is making it easier for users to create moving visuals without specialized technical skills.
The ability to control animation speed and edit individual frames also provides greater flexibility than basic one-step image generation.
As AI-powered creative tools become more widely available, features that simplify content production could become increasingly important for individuals, businesses and developers.
With Images 2.6 rolling out across ChatGPT and Codex, OpenAI is expanding its visual creation capabilities while responding to growing demand for faster, more flexible AI-generated content.
William Faulkner writes for Social Post News, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.
More Stories
Google Gemini Downgrade Draws Criticism as Survey Shows Users Oppose New AI Restrictions
Google Gemini Expands Connected Apps With Adobe, Airtable, Peloton and More
OpenRGB 1.0 Expands Open-Source RGB Control Across Windows, Linux and macOS