ChatGPT Images 2.6 is here, and it can turn your photos into animated GIFs

OpenAI has recently rolled out ChatGPT Images 2.6, which is now available across all subscription levels, including the free version. This update is a minor 0.1 upgrade from the previous Images 2.5, but it brings two noteworthy features. Firstly, users can now create animated GIF images using ChatGPT, and secondly, they can now upload a persistent reference image, eliminating the need to repeatedly upload the same image when requesting multiple edits.

The GIF creation feature is particularly exciting, as it allows users to transform their photos into animated content using simple text prompts. To demonstrate this, the author used a photo of their cat, Chester, and requested a Halloween-themed GIF. ChatGPT transformed the photo, giving Chester a Halloween hat, cape, and a blinking pumpkin in the background.

The author found the result amusing and decided to push the boundaries further by asking ChatGPT to make Chester more active and creative. The resulting GIF showcased Chester as a witch casting a spell, conjuring a floating pumpkin, and giving a triumphant meow. The author emphasizes the importance of prompt writing and encourages users to ask ChatGPT to get creative.

Furthermore, the author tested the persistent reference image feature, saving Chester's original photo as a reference image called "Chester." This feature allows users to reference the original photo without re-uploading it in future conversations. By using the reference "@Chester" in their prompts, users can create new images featuring the saved photo, such as Chester dressed as a pirate or an astronaut on the moon.

Overall, the author is pleased with the Images 2.6 update, highlighting how easy it is to create fun GIFs using ChatGPT's natural language input method, without requiring any technical expertise or animation software.