OpenAI’s ‘Sora’ Hits 470,000 Downloads in a Day on Android - Accelerating the Popularization of AI Video Generation

OpenAI’s AI video generation app ‘Sora’ has recorded a remarkable 470,000 downloads on its first day after launching the Android version, sparking an explosive response in the global market. This figure surpasses the iOS version’s first-day installs (about 110,000) by more than fourfold — a sign that AI video creation tools are rapidly spreading to mainstream users.

470,000 Downloads on Android’s First Day — Four Times iOS

Launched on November 4 (local time), Sora was released simultaneously in seven countries — South Korea, the United States, Canada, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

According to mobile analytics firm Appfigures, the estimated 470,000 downloads on Google Play show a much faster adoption rate compared to the invite-only iOS version.

The success is partly due to differences in platform accessibility. While the iOS version was limited to the U.S. and Canada, the Android version was released broadly across multiple regions, lowering the entry barrier for users.

“Text to Video” — Simplifying AI Video Creation

Sora automatically generates videos based on text prompts entered by users.

The resulting clips can be viewed in a vertical scroll feed similar to TikTok, and the ‘Cameo’ feature allows users to insert their own or others’ faces into generated videos.

Unlike simple image generation, Sora takes a step further by automatically composing short narrative videos, gaining traction not only among creators but also general users.

Upcoming Features Raise Expectations

OpenAI plans to roll out several new features for Sora in the near future.

These include a ‘Character Cameo’ option to feature pets or inanimate objects, a basic editing tool to combine multiple clips, and a customized feed that highlights videos from followed creators.

Such updates are expected to boost user engagement and hint at Sora’s evolution from a mere video generator into a “social AI creative platform.”

Challenges and Controversies

Despite its popularity, Sora faces ethical and legal controversies.

Some users have generated videos mocking historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., leading OpenAI to implement stricter content moderation policies.

Additionally, the use of the term ‘Cameo’ has sparked a trademark dispute with the well-known celebrity video platform of the same name.

Experts also point out issues related to AI video realism, copyright, and portrait rights, emphasizing the need for clearer safeguards.

Korea: A Key Testbed for AI Video Adoption

South Korea, one of the seven launch countries, has emerged as a major contributor to Sora’s initial download surge.

With its high video consumption culture and a vibrant community of MZ and Gen Z creators, the Korean market is playing a pivotal role in accelerating Sora’s popularity.

Experts say this marks a turning point where AI video generation moves beyond tech demos into real consumer-driven content innovation.

By Ju-baek Shin | jbshin@kmjournal.net