OpenAI has released two image models, GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst, through its API and in ChatGPT, with the update available globally starting today.
Image generation · OpenAI
OpenAI releases two new image models and adds GIF generation to ChatGPT
GPT-Image-2.6 Flare and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst are available through the API and in ChatGPT, with the Images 2.6 update rolling out globally from today. The update also claims 50% faster image generation.
50%
Faster generation, as claimed (not independently verified)
2
New models: Flare and Sunburst
GIF
New output format beyond static images
Ref.
Reference-image support added
Generation speed: previous version vs. Images 2.6
Relative throughput, previous version = 1.0×. Each block = 0.5×. Speed gain is the company's claim and has not been independently benchmarked.
What the release adds
Broad consumer access through ChatGPT
Developer access through the API
GIF generation from a single prompt
Reference images to help keep characters, products, or styles consistent
What remains unclear
No benchmarks, latency measurements, or pricing for either model
How Flare and Sunburst differ in design, use, or performance
Inconsistent naming: "GPT-Image-2.6" and "Images 2.6"
Training data, safety evaluations, and early reception
Open questions
The release is significant, but its key claims still need real-world testing.
How are Flare and Sunburst positioned relative to each other?
Does the 50% speed improvement hold up under real workloads?
Will GIF generation become a standard part of the image feature set?
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