Sora API Shutdown 2026: What Creators Need to Know
OpenAI is discontinuing the Sora API on September 24, 2026. Here is what happens next, how to protect your existing Sora content, and which AI video tools creators can consider instead.
What Is Happening to OpenAI Sora?
OpenAI has officially announced the discontinuation of Sora.
The Sora web and app experiences were discontinued on April 26, 2026.
The remaining Sora API will be discontinued on September 24, 2026.
This means developers and creators who still rely on the Sora API should begin preparing alternative workflows before the shutdown date.
Sora API Shutdown Date
The official Sora API shutdown date is:
September 24, 2026
After this date, creators and developers should no longer expect the Sora API to remain available for generating AI video content.
How to Export Your Sora Content
OpenAI recommends exporting Sora content as soon as possible.
According to OpenAI’s current guidance, creators can export previously generated content through the Sora sunset page.
- Open the official Sora sunset page.
- Choose the Export option.
- Wait for OpenAI to prepare the export.
- OpenAI will send an email when the export is ready.
- Download and securely store your files.
It is better to export important content before the final shutdown rather than waiting until the last day.
What Happens to Sora Data After Shutdown?
OpenAI says data associated with Sora use will eventually be permanently deleted after Sora has been discontinued and any available final export period has ended.
This is another reason creators should save any Sora videos, prompts, project files or other content they still want to keep.
Best Sora Alternatives After the API Shutdown
The end of Sora does not mean creators have to stop using AI video generation. Several competing platforms now offer text-to-video, image-to-video and cinematic AI generation.
Google Veo
Google Veo is one of the strongest Sora alternatives for high-quality generative video and increasingly advanced AI filmmaking workflows.
Runway
Runway remains a major AI video platform for text-to-video, image-to-video and creator-focused generative editing.
Kling AI
Kling AI is popular for cinematic motion, realistic movement and image-to-video generation.
Adobe Firefly Video
Adobe Firefly Video can be useful for creators already working inside Adobe’s creative ecosystem.
Luma Dream Machine
Luma offers AI video generation with strong motion and visual experimentation options.
Pika
Pika is designed around accessible AI video creation and quick visual effects for creators.
For a deeper comparison, see CreatorToolly’s Best Sora Alternatives for AI Video Generation .
Sora Alternative Comparison for Creators
| Platform | Best For | Creator Use |
|---|---|---|
| Google Veo | Advanced generative video | Cinematic clips and creative production |
| Runway | AI video workflows | Creators, filmmakers and editors |
| Kling AI | Motion and realism | Short films and social videos |
| Adobe Firefly | Adobe workflows | Professional creative teams |
| Luma | Creative visual generation | Experimental AI video |
| Pika | Fast AI effects | Social media creators |
What Sora Users Should Do Before September 24
Creators and developers still using Sora should avoid waiting until the shutdown date.
- Export any Sora content you still need.
- Save prompts, workflows and project references.
- Identify which parts of your workflow depend on the Sora API.
- Test at least one alternative AI video platform.
- Compare pricing, generation quality and API access.
- Update automated workflows before September 24.
- Keep backups of important AI-generated assets.
What Does the Sora Shutdown Mean for YouTube Creators?
YouTube creators using Sora-generated footage should mainly focus on preserving old content and choosing a new video-generation workflow.
Existing exported Sora videos can still be edited, repurposed and used where appropriate, subject to YouTube’s current rules and any applicable content policies.
Creators using realistic AI-generated footage should also remain aware of YouTube’s current AI disclosure requirements.
Read our guide to YouTube AI Content Labels for more information.
Will OpenAI Replace Sora?
OpenAI’s discontinuation notice confirms that Sora is being discontinued, but creators should avoid assuming that a specific replacement product will appear unless OpenAI officially announces one.
For now, creators who need AI video generation should evaluate existing alternatives rather than waiting for an unannounced replacement.
Official OpenAI Sora Shutdown Information
OpenAI confirms that the Sora web and app experiences were discontinued on April 26, 2026 and that the Sora API will be discontinued on September 24, 2026.
OpenAI also recommends exporting Sora content as soon as possible.
Sora API Shutdown FAQ
When is the Sora API shutting down?
OpenAI says the Sora API will be discontinued on September 24, 2026.
Is the Sora app already discontinued?
Yes. OpenAI says the Sora web and app experiences were discontinued on April 26, 2026.
Can I still export my Sora videos?
OpenAI currently provides an export process through its Sora sunset page and recommends exporting content as soon as possible.
What happens to my Sora data?
OpenAI says Sora-related data will eventually be permanently deleted after discontinuation and any available final export period.
What are the best Sora alternatives?
Alternatives creators can evaluate include Google Veo, Runway, Kling AI, Adobe Firefly Video, Luma Dream Machine and Pika.
Will existing Sora videos stop working?
Exported video files are separate media files. The shutdown primarily affects access to Sora and its API, so creators should save important content before the service is fully discontinued.
Should developers migrate before September 24?
Yes. Any production workflow that depends on the Sora API should be reviewed and migrated before the official shutdown date.
Is OpenAI launching a replacement for Sora?
OpenAI’s shutdown announcement does not confirm a specific replacement product, so creators should rely on official announcements rather than speculation.