OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Images 2.5 with Halved Latency

OpenAI launches ChatGPT Images 2.5 and two variants in its API. The Flare version is announced with a 50% reduced latency compared to GPT-Image-2, while Sunburst targets use cases requiring fine control. The model arrives simultaneously on ChatGPT, ChatGPT Work, and Codex, along with new tools like Sketch and templates.

Two API Variants: Flare by Default and Sunburst for Fine Control

OpenAI offers two versions of ChatGPT Images 2.5 in its API: GPT-Image-2.5 Flare and GPT-Image-2.5 Sunburst. Flare is the default choice for most use cases, with announced improvements in quality, editing, and speed. According to OpenAI, Flare generates higher quality images than GPT-Image-2 and reduces latency by 50%. Sunburst is intended for creative work requiring finer control, with longer generation times.

Immediate Availability on ChatGPT, Work, and Codex Across All Platforms

ChatGPT Images 2.5 is accessible to all users of ChatGPT, ChatGPT Work, and Codex, on desktop, web, and mobile. All ChatGPT plans and all ChatGPT Work users are included. Access to the model is included for Codex. Pricing is available online. The official announcement took place on September 8, 2026.

New Features: Sketch for Drawing and Ready-to-Use Templates

The launch comes with Sketch, a feature that allows users to draw a sketch directly in ChatGPT to use as a visual reference. The user can provide a drawing, add a description of the style and details, and then generate an image based on that input. Activation is done by typing “@Sketch” in the input bar, and it is possible to annotate a specific area to target a modification. ChatGPT Images 2.5 also introduces templates for formats like posters or packshots: the user selects a template and then fills in the desired information and design elements. OpenAI highlights sharper details, more precise editing, faster generation, reduced latency compared to version 2.0, better execution of instructions over time, and more refined processing of reference images. The presentation of Sketch took place on the Tuesday of the announcement.