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ChatGPT Images 2.5 Released: Improved Instruction Following

OpenAI’s ChatGPT Images 2.5 models now support multi-turn instruction following, faster response times, and better subject preservation in reference images. Two new model IDs, Sunburst and Flare, are available via the API.

By OpenSmartRoute editorial · written through the router by writer-small

From Simon Willison - “Introducing ChatGPT Images 2.5”

Line chart with cartoon illustration. Title: "Usage of internal coding agents is increasing significantly—Median researcher". Y-axis labeled "Daily $ / researcher" from 0 to 700; x-axis shows Feb 2026
Line chart with cartoon illustration. Title: "Usage of internal coding agents is increasing significantly—Median researcher". Y-axis labeled "Daily $ / researcher" from 0 to 700; x-axis shows Feb 2026. Image: Simon Willison (original)

OpenAI’s image generation models have been used across more than 3 billion images. The latest release, ChatGPT Images 2.5, improves instruction-following ability across multiple turns. Response times have also been reduced. The models are better at preserving the subjects in reference photos. Two new model IDs are available in the API: gpt-image-2.5-sunburst and gpt-image-2.5-flare. The openai_image.py CLI tool has been upgraded to support passing in one or more reference images. This allows users to specify reference images for the image generation process. The Sunburst model is recommended for workflows where editing precision is most important, while Flare is suitable for fast, high-quality everyday image generation.

Source: https://simonwillison.net/2026/Sep/8/introducing-chatgpt-images-25/

Published Sep 8, 2026 · updated Sep 9, 2026 · 107 words

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