OpenAI rolled out a major update to ChatGPT on November 4, 2026, introducing native support for creating animated GIFs through text prompts or uploaded photos. The Verge reports that this new capability arrives alongside the release of the company's Images 2.6 model for web, desktop, and mobile apps.
Key takeaways
- ChatGPT can now natively generate animated GIFs from prompts or uploaded photos in a single step.
- Users can adjust animation speeds, edit individual frames, and share the resulting GIFs.
- OpenAI states that users now generate over 4 billion images per week across ChatGPT and its API.
- The Images 2.6 model also introduces GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst for the API.
How does ChatGPT make animated GIFs?
Prior to this release, the chatbot could not generate GIFs natively in a single step. According to The Verge, you can now enter a prompt like asking for a dancing cat or upload a photo to start the process. Once generated, the tool gives you options to modify the playback speed and inspect the output frame-by-frame.
What's new in the ChatGPT update?
Beyond moving pixels, the ChatGPT update brings notable performance improvements. OpenAI reports that image generation speeds are now much faster across the board. Weekly usage has climbed significantly, moving from 3 billion images per week reported in September to a current total of over 4 billion images generated weekly across ChatGPT and its API.
What this means for the OpenAI API
Developers working with the OpenAI API will find new tools designed to speed up workflows and boost output quality. Specifically, the company is launching GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst in its API alongside the broader rollout to Codex and consumer apps.
Why it matters
Regular users and developers on web, desktop, and mobile platforms now have direct access to quick GIF creation and faster image rendering without relying on third-party tools. These additions streamline creative tasks right inside the chat interface.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, ChatGPT can now create animated GIFs using a text prompt or an uploaded photo thanks to the Images 2.6 update.
The update lets you adjust the animation speed of the GIF, edit individual frames, and share it with other people.
According to OpenAI, users now generate over 4 billion images per week across ChatGPT and its API, which is an increase from 3 billion per week in September.
The Images 2.6 model is rolling out to all ChatGPT and Codex users across web, desktop, and mobile apps.
OpenAI is launching GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and Sunburst in its API to provide faster and higher-quality image generation.
Based on reporting by The Verge. Read the original article
