Recent reports indicate that OpenAI’s Sora model is facing significant research challenges. The primary factors contributing to this predicament include concerns over safety risks and the complexities associated with collaborations in Hollywood. Additionally, a recent Goldman Sachs report incorrectly interpreted a decline in ChatGPT’s traffic, which spurred market panic and led to widespread selling of AI stocks.
Sora, launched in February of this year, has yet to be fully released, raising questions about its prolonged development period. Recent coverage from CNBC highlighted that the delays are partly due to ongoing discussions with policymakers to address safety risks, particularly in light of the upcoming U.S. elections. Technical readiness for public release has also been cited as a reason for the delay.
While Sora has yet to be widely available, OpenAI has shared selective artistic projects created using the model. For instance, a Singaporean artist recently showcased a video that explored themes of aging, beauty, freedom, and fun, titled “Auntie’s Eggs.” Another project from a London-based artist featured a fashion show.
Despite the artistic excitement surrounding Sora, many users are left wanting more as the model is currently only accessible to select artists. Competing AI video models are emerging, such as Runway Gen-3 Alpha and Dream Machine, which offer similar capabilities at no cost. There is speculation that Sora’s release may hinge on regulatory approval, especially given OpenAI’s use of YouTube data in training the model, which raises potential legal concerns.
As reported in March, OpenAI’s Chief Technology Officer, Mira Murati, indicated that while the use of public and licensed data is crucial, the company is still navigating various obstacles to Sora’s release. Furthermore, YouTube’s CEO has issued warnings about potential liabilities related to data usage.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Sora, the model is generating anticipation among Hollywood artists who have gained limited access in early testing phases. OpenAI has been actively promoting Sora to film studios and media executives, emphasizing its potential impact on the entertainment industry. Notably, there are collaborative efforts with New York City art institutions to showcase Sora’s capabilities in exhibitions, including an upcoming gallery event.
In a separate but related development, Goldman Sachs recently faced backlash over a report that mistakenly analyzed ChatGPT’s traffic, leading to negative sentiment in stock markets and heightened concerns over an “AI bubble.” The report suggested a significant drop in ChatGPT’s traffic, but failed to account for a recent domain change by OpenAI that likely affected traffic metrics.
Contrary to the report’s implications, actual data from Similarweb indicates ChatGPT experienced a 66.2% year-over-year growth, affirming its status as the leading generative AI application. Reports suggest that OpenAI’s active user base has reached approximately 200 million per week, doubling since November 2022, with demand for its services remaining robust.
However, despite growing interest, OpenAI struggles with high operational costs estimated at $8.5 billion against projected revenues between $3.5 billion and $4.5 billion. Analysts from Goldman Sachs have observed that concerns about the sustainability of generative AI innovation and investment returns are valid, yet they do not categorize the technology as a bubble. They argue that while historical trends suggest innovative periods face risks of overhype, recent advancements in AI indicate substantial merit and potential.
In conclusion, both Sora’s development challenges and the financial misinterpretations about ChatGPT highlight the complexities of the current AI landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be crucial for stakeholders to understand these dynamics and prepare for the opportunities and risks that lie ahead.