Updates from OpenAI’s Dev Day and Sora rollout

In this edition: examining the response to the Sora video app, and the shifts introduced at OpenAI’s Dev Day.

This is Q&AI, our blog series aimed at keeping you in the know on updates in the rapidly evolving world of AI. Sometimes, these will be quick updates on new developments in the field. Sometimes, they’ll be tips on tactics, features, or functionality. 

If you haven’t met me yet, hi: I’m Jen Taylor, CI’s Director of AI Strategy & Implementation, and your (very human) AI BFF. AI is moving at the speed of light, so I’m here to let you know what matters most now. 

Q: Knowing that copyright concerns are huge with AI image and video generation, has there been any backlash to OpenAI’s Sora app? 

A: OpenAI’s Sora video app shot to #1 in the App Store, even though it’s invite-only. The buzz was quickly followed within 24 hours by quite a bit of backlash; users were generating videos with copyrighted material, and OpenAI initially used an opt-out model for creators. Sam Altman has since acknowledged the misstep, and the company is shifting to opt-in. While OpenAI should have seen this coming, it’s good to see an AI company finally giving copyright owners some control over their IP. These tools were trained on artists’ work without consent, it’s time the industry starts correcting that.

Q: WHAT WERE SOME BIG TAKEAWAYS FROM OPENAI’S DEV DAy?

A: At Dev Day, OpenAI introduced two big shifts.

First, AgentKit, a simple builder for automation and “do-things-for-you” agents — like Zapier, but inside OpenAI’s ecosystem.

Second, ChatGPT can now connect directly to apps like Spotify, signaling OpenAI’s goal to become your front door to the internet. It’s a smart move, but also a power grab. It consolidates workflows, data, and attention inside ChatGPT. No immediate action needed, but this could eventually change user behavior in ways that shift how marketers reach and engage audiences.

Q: ANYTHING ELSE WE SHOULD KNOW RE: OPENAI UPDATES?

A: Sam Altman recently shared that OpenAI has relaxed many of ChatGPT’s previous restrictions, saying the company had kept the product intentionally conservative to mitigate mental health risks.

He now claims those risks have been “mitigated” — and under the company’s new “treat adults like adults” principle, ChatGPT will begin allowing erotica for verified users.

To be honest, this update raises concerns. The idea that mental health risks have been resolved feels overly optimistic, especially without transparency about what mitigation means. Framing users as either “with” or “without” mental health issues also oversimplifies a complex spectrum, and it’s unclear how those distinctions will actually be enforced.

your friend,
Jen

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