Images 2.6: 50% Faster with Animated GIFs

OpenAI is releasing Images 2.6 across ChatGPT, Codex, and the API, with two major capabilities: animated GIF creation and 50% faster image generation. The platform now supports animated brand mascots, reactions, memes, and storyboards, working from simple sketches and maintaining consistency through iterative edits.

The API introduces two model variants. GPT-Image-2.6 Flare prioritizes speed, generating images in as little as six seconds at low quality settings while improving layout quality for professional visuals like posters and product imagery. GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst focuses on higher fidelity, offering greater detail and consistency across edits at medium and high quality settings.

Developers gain new controls through image markup in the API for pinpointing specific changes, SVG exports for cross-platform use, and a complexity parameter allowing them to adjust how much processing the model applies to each request. ChatGPT and Codex versions are available globally today across all subscription tiers on desktop, mobile, and web.