Key Points
- Sora launched as an invite‑only iOS app and quickly topped the U.S. App Store.
- Monthly downloads and consumer spending have fallen sharply since launch.
- The app slipped just outside the top‑100 overall free apps on the App Store.
- Google Gemini and Meta AI video tools are intensifying competition.
- OpenAI shifted from an opt‑out to an opt‑in copyright model after industry pushback.
- A partnership with Disney now allows limited use of Disney characters in videos.
- Analysts question if new features or additional content deals can revive growth.
Launch Success
When OpenAI released its video‑generation app Sora, the product quickly rose to the top of the U.S. App Store. The iOS‑only, invite‑only experience attracted a flood of users, reaching a milestone of one million downloads faster than ChatGPT and topping the overall free‑app chart. Early adopters praised its ability to generate AI videos from text prompts and to feature users and friends as main characters, with options to add music, sound effects, and dialogue.
Decline in Downloads and Spending
In the weeks following the launch, market‑intelligence data indicated a noticeable slowdown. Monthly install numbers fell sharply, and consumer spending within the app also dropped. The app’s rank slipped just outside the top‑100 overall free apps on the U.S. App Store and fell further on Google Play. Although total downloads across platforms remain in the millions, the recent downward trend has raised concerns about sustained user interest.
Competitive Landscape
Sora now contends with rival AI video offerings. Google’s Gemini model and Meta’s AI‑powered video features have attracted users, adding pressure to Sora’s growth. These competing services have contributed to the shift in download patterns as users explore alternative platforms for AI‑generated video content.
Copyright Challenges and Disney Deal
From the outset, Sora faced scrutiny over the use of copyrighted characters. OpenAI initially adopted an opt‑out approach, which drew backlash from Hollywood studios. To address legal concerns, the company switched to an opt‑in model and tightened restrictions on commercial intellectual property. More recently, OpenAI announced a partnership with Disney that permits users to generate videos featuring Disney characters. While the deal was intended to boost appeal, early data suggests it has not yet translated into higher install numbers or increased spending.
Future Outlook
The mixed performance of Sora highlights the challenges of sustaining momentum for AI‑driven social media apps. Analysts note that user willingness to share personal likenesses and the ability to use popular IP are key factors influencing adoption. Whether additional content agreements, new feature releases, or adjustments to the app’s monetization strategy can reverse the recent decline remains uncertain. The app’s continued presence in the top‑100 photo and video category indicates lingering interest, but its future trajectory will depend on how OpenAI addresses competition and copyright considerations.
Source: techcrunch.com