OpenAI has launched Sora 2, a significant upgrade to its AI-powered video generation platform, introducing features that aim to balance creative freedom with copyright protection and fair monetization. The update comes with a new app, a TikTok-style personalized video feed, and specific policy changes announced by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
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What Is Sora 2 and How Does It Work?
Sora 2 builds on OpenAI’s advancements in generative video technology, letting users create short video clips from simple prompts. The app is currently available for iOS, limited to users in the US and Canada with an invite. Its new version not only offers a wider range of effects and editing but also streamlines discovery using a personalized video feed inspired by social content platforms.
New Copyright Controls for Rightsholders
One of the headline changes in Sora 2 is “granular control” for copyright holders over how their characters or IP can appear in generated videos. This update responds to concerns from major companies such as Marvel and Disney, whose characters have been used in user-generated clips.
With these controls, copyright holders can allow, restrict, or block the generation of certain characters or assets. Sam Altman describes this evolving approach as a way to encourage “interactive fan fiction,” where rightsholders get value from new types of user engagement but retain the ability to manage their intellectual property.
This move is expected to reduce the number of videos featuring famous film or game characters without permission, ensuring that the platform better respects established IP.
Monetization and Revenue Sharing
Another important direction for Sora 2 is monetization—both in terms of user access and compensating copyright holders. Altman confirms that OpenAI is considering a “pay-to-generate” system, especially during periods of high demand. More importantly, the company is planning to share revenue with copyright holders whose protected work appears in videos, rewarding those who opt in.
The revenue-sharing model is still under development and “will take some trial and error,” according to Altman. The aim is to build a sustainable way for creators and rightsholders to benefit as user-generated video becomes more popular on the platform.
Why These Changes Matter
Generative AI video apps have exploded in adoption, but many have struggled to navigate copyright and fair compensation. By giving more power to copyright owners and opening new revenue streams, Sora 2 positions itself as a responsible and inclusive option for both creative users and media companies.
- More safety for brands and IP owners
- Clearer boundaries for users who want to create fan content
- Potential for financial rewards in a growing AI video market
What Will Happen Next With Sora 2
The app is still in early stages and invite-only, but wider release is likely. As more users join and copyright policies evolve, expect tighter restrictions on what clips can be made—and new features to reward brands and creators for participating. These improvements may set a precedent across the industry for handling copyright and monetization in AI content platforms.
Sora 2’s new controls and upcoming monetization features set it apart from many rival apps, which often lack clear policies around copyright or sharing revenue. With a rising number of users and companies paying attention, OpenAI’s focus on compliance and fair sharing will likely attract both big media brands and a wider creative community.
