FollowingDay 4in the edition since 5 Nov 20263 sourcesupdated 6 Nov 2026

ChatGPT Images 2.6 release

The gist

Latest: OpenAI Releases Images 2.6 with GIFs, Faster Models, New Features

The release substantially expands what developers and users can produce with OpenAI's image tools, adding animated output and persistent visual references. The 4 billion weekly image figure OpenAI cited indicates the scale at which these capabilities are used.

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The full picture

OpenAI released ChatGPT Images 2.6 on November 4, 2026, adding GIF generation, reference image input, saved persistent character and product references, image markup, SVG export, and a complexity setting. Two new API models accompany the release: GPT-Image-2.6 Flare, aimed at speed and layouts, and GPT-Image-2.6 Sunburst, aimed at detail and consistent edits. Both generate images 50% faster than previous models, with the speed-focused model capable of producing an image in as little as six seconds. The update is rolling out across ChatGPT, Codex, and the OpenAI API. OpenAI said users generate approximately 4 billion images per week across its products.

How it developed

5 November 2026in the 6 Nov edition

The Neuron Daily reported additional details on OpenAI's November 4 image generation update, noting that the speed-focused Flare model can produce an image in as little as six seconds.

The release also includes the ability to save persistent reference images of people, pets, or characters for reuse without re-uploading, alongside image markup, SVG export, and a complexity setting. OpenAI cited a figure of approximately 4 billion images generated per week across its products.

First citedThe Neuron

First in the edition · 5 November 2026

4 November 2026in the 5 Nov edition

OpenAI released ChatGPT Images 2.6 on November 4, 2026, adding GIF generation and reference image input alongside two new API models, Flare and Sunburst.

OpenAI said both models "generate images 50% faster than before," and that Sunburst at medium or high quality "keeps details more consistent from one edit to the next". The new models are available in Codex and the OpenAI API.

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Sources

OpenAI Devs on X