OpenAI rolls out Images 2.6 in ChatGPT and Codex, adding animated GIF generation
In brief
- Images 2.6 is live worldwide in ChatGPT and Codex, Crypto Briefing reported.
- Free and paid tiers get access on web, desktop and mobile.
- Single-step animated GIF generation from text or photos is the main new feature.
- Developers get two API models: Flare for speed, Sunburst for quality.
- Weekly image generations passed 4 billion, up from 3 billion in September, OpenAI says.
GIFs from a prompt or a photo
The big change is animation. According to Crypto Briefing's report, users can make a GIF from a text prompt or an uploaded photo, and the model returns a looping animation in one step. After that, they can adjust playback speed and edit individual frames.
It isn't only about motion. The report said the update also makes image generation faster overall than earlier versions (it didn't put a number on the gain).
Two API models for developers
Developers get two options. Crypto Briefing reported that OpenAI launched two API variants, each tuned for a different priority. GPT-Image-2.6 Flare is optimized for speed, and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst focuses on output quality. The split isn't new; Images 2.5 also shipped with two API models.
Usage keeps climbing
OpenAI reported that weekly image generation volume has passed 4 billion, compared with 3 billion in September 2026, Crypto Briefing said. That figure comes from the company, and it hasn't been independently confirmed.
The releases have come close together. Images 2 arrived in April with higher resolution and stronger design features, and Images 2.5 followed on September 8, 2026, with sharper details and up to 50% lower latency, per the report. Images 2.6 takes the line from still images into animation.
Crypto Briefing said OpenAI didn't formally announce the Images 2.6 rollout.
Frequently asked questions
How does animated GIF generation work in Images 2.6?
According to Crypto Briefing, users can generate a GIF from a text prompt or an uploaded photo, and the model returns a looping animation in a single step. Users can then adjust playback speed and edit individual frames.
What is the difference between GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst?
Crypto Briefing reported that OpenAI launched two API variants for developers. GPT-Image-2.6 Flare is optimized for speed, while GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst is focused on output quality. Images 2.5 also shipped with two API models.
Who can use Images 2.6 in ChatGPT?
Crypto Briefing reported that Images 2.6 is available on every subscription tier, from free users to paying ones, on web, desktop and mobile. The gradual rollout began on November 4, 2026, without a formal announcement from OpenAI.
