Big news for AI video enthusiasts! Microsoft has made OpenAI’s Sora video generator available for free through the Bing mobile app, a move announced on June 3, 2025. Previously locked behind paid subscriptions, Sora can now be accessed by anyone with the Bing app on iOS or Android, opening up AI video creation to a broader audience. However, there are some limitations to understand before diving in. Here’s the scoop on this exciting release.
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Sora on Bing: What You Need to Know
Sora, OpenAI’s text-to-video model, first launched in December 2024 to much fanfare for its realistic visuals and dynamic motion. Now, through Bing Video Creator, users can generate 5-second videos in a 9:16 vertical format—perfect for platforms like TikTok or Instagram Reels—simply by typing a text prompt like “Create a video of a dancing robot in a futuristic city.” The feature is currently exclusive to the Bing mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play, with Microsoft promising desktop support soon.
The “free and almost unlimited” claim comes with a nuance. All users get 10 “Fast” video generations for free, which can take a few minutes to process despite the name. After that, you can continue generating videos at a slower “Standard” speed, which might take hours, or redeem 100 Microsoft Rewards points per Fast video. These points are earned through activities like searching with Bing (5 points per PC search, capped at 150 points daily) or shopping at the Microsoft Store. You can queue up to three videos at a time, and each video is stored for 90 days, available for download or sharing.
What’s the Catch?
While Microsoft touts this as unlimited generation, the speed limitation after the initial 10 Fast videos could be a bottleneck for eager creators. The Standard speed’s long wait times—potentially hours—might frustrate users who need quick results, and earning enough Rewards points for additional Fast generations requires consistent engagement with Microsoft’s ecosystem. Additionally, Sora on Bing is limited to text-to-video prompts for now, lacking features like video-to-video generation or the ability to upload images, which are available in OpenAI’s paid Sora implementation. The 5-second cap and vertical format also restrict creative flexibility, though Microsoft has promised 16:9 support soon.
Why This Matters
This release marks a significant step in democratizing AI video tools, especially since Sora typically requires a ChatGPT Plus ($20/month) or Pro ($200/month) subscription. By offering it for free, Microsoft is likely aiming to boost Bing’s user base amid competition from other AI video generators like Google’s Veo 3 or Runway, which have surpassed Sora in some benchmarks. However, the quality of Sora’s output on Bing has drawn mixed reactions—some users on X praise its accessibility, while others note the videos can appear cartoony or lack polish compared to rival models.
There are also broader implications to consider. Microsoft has implemented safeguards, including OpenAI’s Sora protections and C2PA metadata to flag AI-generated content, but the ease of access could still amplify risks like misinformation or deepfake creation. OpenAI’s own rollout of Sora faced criticism for its potential to disrupt creative industries, with filmmakers like Tyler Perry pausing studio expansions due to AI’s impact. Microsoft’s move might accelerate these debates, especially as it brings such technology to a wider, non-paying audience.
How to Get Started
To try Sora on Bing, download the Bing app from the App Store or Google Play, sign in with a Microsoft account, and navigate to the “Video Creator” section via the bottom-right menu or by typing “Create a video of…” in the search bar. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially after your first 10 videos, and keep an eye out for desktop support in the coming weeks.
This release is a game-changer for casual creators, but the limitations on speed and functionality might temper expectations for more serious projects. Still, it’s a bold move by Microsoft to make AI video generation more accessible—perfect for whipping up quick social media clips on the go. #news #service