OpenAI’s new Sora 2 is making headlines as it’s currently the #1 AI video generation app for both Apple app store and Google Play. When searching the app store for the latest model from OpenAI, you might have noticed several Sora apps; that’s because there are several fakes. The OpenAI Sora actually says “OpenAI” and has a cute looking cloud with starry eyes.
But here’s the catch — once you download the app, you’ll still have to wait to use Sora 2 unless you have an access code. OpenAI is rolling out Sora 2 slowly because of the surge in traffic.
The hype around Sora 2’s launch is underscored by Reddit users sharing codes and online rumors about how to get access. Unfortunately, the fastest way to get access would be to upgrade to ChatGPT Plus or Pro, but even then, unless you have an access code — which will be emailed to you directly from OpenAI — you might not get in.
I know you’re itching to try those Cameos and get a look at what Sora 2 can do, but in the meantime, here are three AI video app alternatives to keep you busy.
Synthesia
With personal selfie avatars, Synthesia makes it easy to picture yourself just about anywhere. You start by uploading at least five selfies, then record your voice and in less than 3 minutes, you’ll have a video of you chatting on the moon, in a coffee shop or at your local market.
The AI-powered avatars mimic facial expressions, add lifelike motion and can be used across social platforms, messaging app, or even video calls. Similar to Sora 2’s Cameos, users have to consent to have their image and voice used in the videos.
Veo
Veo is Google DeepMind’s latest AI video generator, and it’s built to turn simple text prompts into high-quality, cinematic clips. Unlike earlier models, Veo can handle multiple shots, consistent characters, realistic physics and smooth camera moves, just tell it what you want and you’ll get professional-grade video.
I’ve used Veo a lot for creating realistic videos, even placing myself in a TV sitcom trailer.
From short social clips to film-like sequences, Veo is a leap forward in AI-driven storytelling. Users can string several videos together while maintaining the flow (hence the name Flow). This is something Sora 2 doesn’t have; the maximum length of Sora videos is 10 seconds.
Whisk
Whisk is another favorite of mine, also from Google Labs. Perhaps the easiest of any of the video generators to use, you simply drop in images — no test prompts necessary, allow you can add them for extra detail. Users get 50 video generations for free.
Simply drop in reference images to suggest the subject, scene or style. Then, the system “remixes” those inputs to whisk up new visuals. The result isn’t a literal copy, but an imaginative re-interpretation of your input, with room to refine via text.
It's not always accurate; think rapid concept iterations and visual brainstorming, not exact replication. Sometimes it’s way off.
Final thoughts
Without a doubt, Sora 2 is getting all the buzz at the moment, but unless you’re holding an invite code, you’ll probably be stuck waiting for a while. The good news is, you can start generating some pretty great videos right from your selfies now.
Tools like Synthesia, Veo and Whisk each offer their own spin on AI video generation, and while they aren't perfect, they are a lot of fun (and free!).
They may not have the same hype factor as OpenAI’s Sora 2, but they can keep your creativity flowing until access codes land in your inbox. Give them a try and let me know what you think in the comments.
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