OpenAI has introduced its new Sora 2 AI video generation model alongside the Sora app for iPhone, giving users the power to create, remix, and share AI-generated video clips. Despite operating under an invite-only system, the app quickly went viral on the App Store, surpassing one million downloads faster than ChatGPT—an impressive feat, especially since its initial rollout was limited to the U.S. and Canada.
Social media platforms have been flooded with short videos made using the Sora app, many showcasing digital recreations of real people. This surge owes much to Sora’s Cameo feature, which allows users to appear in AI videos—alongside anyone who has allowed use of their likeness.
Expanded Access and Global Launch
On Wednesday, OpenAI announced a set of major updates for Sora, including the removal of its invite-only restriction for selected regions and its first international release. For a limited time, ChatGPT users can download and use the Sora app without an invite code. The expanded rollout includes existing markets in the U.S. and Canada and introduces availability in Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
To celebrate the launch, OpenAI released promotional clips featuring a digital version of CEO Sam Altman, dubbed his “Cameo,” speaking in local languages to mark Sora’s arrival in Asia.
How Character Cameos Work
OpenAI first unveiled its Cameo feature several weeks ago, allowing users to create a digital double of themselves simply by recording a short video with audio. The AI then generates a reusable Cameo that can appear in any future Sora clips. Users have full control over who can use their Cameo—limiting access to themselves, specific friends, or even making it public, as Altman did. All content featuring a user’s Cameo remains accessible in their app library, even if it is not shared publicly.
Building on that idea, OpenAI has now introduced Character Cameos, an evolution of the original feature that lets users design reusable non-human characters. These can be anything from pets to inanimate objects—perfect for creators who want recurring elements in their videos. The setup mirrors the human version: users upload a short clip of the desired character, assign a name and username, write short behavior notes or prompts, set permissions, and decide who can reuse that character in their AI-generated videos.
Importantly, Character Cameos are restricted to non-human entities. OpenAI has explicitly stated that the feature does not support generating or simulating real human likenesses. Each user can maintain a limited number of Character Cameos, which appear neatly organized within their app profiles.
The Future of AI Video Creation
With Sora 2’s enhanced accessibility, new international presence, and the introduction of Character Cameos, OpenAI is positioning Sora as more than just a creative tool—it’s becoming a global social platform built around AI video storytelling. If early adoption rates are any indication, Sora could become one of the defining apps of the AI content era.
