ChatGPT Images 2.6 adds GIFs and saved reference photos
TL;DR
On November 4, 2026 OpenAI introduced ChatGPT Images 2.6, a faster image model that holds details more steadily across edits. GIF creation is rolling out in ChatGPT, and saved reference images let you reuse a photo by name. The API release is GPT Image 2.6 Sunburst and Flare.
- Status
- Rolling Out
- Released
- Plans
- ChatGPT; API models GPT Image 2.6 Sunburst and Flare
- Source
- —
What changed
OpenAI's November 4 ChatGPT release notes say the new image model creates images faster and is better at keeping details across edits. The example OpenAI gives is a character's outfit staying put when you change the background.
Two ChatGPT features ship with it:
- GIFs. Ask for a looping animation, or upload a sketch and ask ChatGPT to make the character move. You can change the playback speed and share the GIF. OpenAI says this is rolling out.
- Saved reference images. Save a photo once, name it, and reuse it in later chats. OpenAI's example is a dog saved as Pepper, then a watercolor of @Pepper without uploading the photo again.
The same day's product release notes name the API models GPT Image 2.6 Sunburst and GPT Image 2.6 Flare for image generation and editing. OpenAI says they support adjustable complexity, SVG generation, and animated GIF generation, and that markup-guided editing was added for supported GPT Image 2.5 and 2.6 models. The notes list the generations and edits image endpoints. This entry does not invent request parameters beyond that.
Why it matters
The practical change in ChatGPT is that a character, a product, or a person you have saved can be called back by name instead of re-attached every thread. That only works after you save the reference. GIF output is a new file type in the same composer, and it is still rolling out, so a missing GIF control is the rollout, not a rejected prompt.
API callers get two 2.6 image models, Sunburst and Flare, plus GIF and SVG generation and markup-guided edits on supported 2.5 and 2.6 models. Confirm the model ID and parameters in the current image docs before you hard-code a string. The release-notes page lists the product names. It does not spell a full request sample.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reuse a photo without uploading it again?
Yes. OpenAI says you save a reference image and then refer to it in a later chat, as in the @Pepper example.
Are GIFs available to everyone in ChatGPT yet?
OpenAI says GIF creation is rolling out. Playback speed can be adjusted, and the GIF can be shared.
What are the API model names?
OpenAI's November 4 product release notes say GPT Image 2.6 Sunburst and GPT Image 2.6 Flare, for generation and editing, including SVG and animated GIF generation.