OpenAI announced the discontinuation of its Sora video-generation app and API in March 2026, as reported by high-authority sources such as CBS News, San Francisco Chronicle, and Computerworld. The company stated that shutting down Sora would allow it to focus resources elsewhere, particularly on enterprise and research priorities.
The shutdown targeted the standalone Sora consumer app and API, meaning public access to Sora as a distinct product ended following the announcement. However, official statements and multiple news reports clarify that the core video-generation technology may still be available within other OpenAI services, such as ChatGPT Plus.
The decision was widely covered and marked a strategic shift for OpenAI, reflecting challenges in scaling generative video technology for consumers and reallocating resources toward other initiatives. The shutdown was implemented as a phaseout rather than an instantaneous cutoff, but Sora's public-facing app and API are no longer available as of March 2026.