OpenAI has officially begun its Sora monetization strategy, ending the era of unlimited free video generation on iOS. The AI company announced that users can now purchase additional video credits after hitting their daily generation limits, signaling a major shift in how the platform operates.
The move is part of OpenAI’s broader plan to make Sora video generation financially sustainable, as demand for high-quality AI video content continues to surge.
$4 for 10 Additional Video Generations
Bill Peebles, Head of Sora at OpenAI, confirmed the new OpenAI Sora monetization model in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “We are launching the ability to buy extra gens in Sora today,” Peebles wrote.
Under the new system, users who hit their daily cap can buy 10 additional video generations for $4 (around ₹350). There is no upper limit on purchases, meaning users can generate as many paid videos as they wish.
This pricing model replaces the previous unlimited access policy and brings Sora’s monetization closer to OpenAI’s other premium tools like ChatGPT Plus and DALL·E Pro.
Who Will Be Affected by the Update
The new policy applies to all user tiers, including free, ChatGPT Plus, and Teams subscribers.
- Free-tier and Plus users: Limited to 30 daily video generations.
- Pro subscribers: Can generate up to 100 videos per day before needing to buy extra bundles.
Once users reach their cap, the Sora app will display a prompt allowing them to purchase more generations through the $4 add-on.
Peebles noted that OpenAI Sora monetization was introduced due to high operational costs. “Letting users generate Sora videos for free is becoming unsustainable,” he said. “The new model ensures we can manage growth while still serving power users.”
Next Steps: Paid “Cameo” Videos and Copyright Controls
As part of the OpenAI Sora monetization roadmap, the company plans to expand its revenue streams through premium features. One focus is Sora Cameo, a tool that lets users create videos featuring real people or fictional characters using text prompts.
OpenAI is reportedly exploring a tiered pricing model where users will pay extra for videos that involve copyrighted likenesses or celebrity imagery. The company may share part of this revenue with original creators and rights holders — a move aimed at encouraging responsible AI use and fair compensation.
Sora Monetization: A Strategic Move for Sustainability
The introduction of OpenAI Sora monetization marks a significant turning point for the company’s AI video ecosystem. As video generation becomes more resource-intensive, this model allows OpenAI to balance innovation, accessibility, and profitability.
By offering flexible credit-based payments, OpenAI is ensuring that casual creators retain access while providing advanced users with the scalability they need. The change also aligns with a growing trend across AI platforms, where paid access ensures quality, compliance, and long-term growth.
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