OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Images 2.5, a major update to its image-generation experience, adding sharper visuals, faster generation and more precise editing. The headline feature is Sketch, which lets users draw a rough idea directly inside ChatGPT and use that drawing as a visual guide for generating the final image. OpenAI’s official ChatGPT Images 2.5 announcement
What is ChatGPT Images 2.5?
ChatGPT Images 2.5 is OpenAI's latest image-generation model, designed to improve both image creation and editing. OpenAI says the model produces more natural lighting, richer textures and better preservation of subjects from reference images.
The company also says Images 2.5 follows editing instructions more reliably across multiple turns. This means users can continue refining an image through several edits without earlier changes being as easily lost or degraded.
What is the new Sketch feature?
Sketch is perhaps the most noticeable addition because it changes how users can communicate an image idea.
Instead of explaining every visual detail through a text prompt, users can draw a rough version of what they want and then tell ChatGPT how they want that sketch transformed. The drawing does not need to be polished or artistic; it acts as a visual reference for the model.
For example, someone could quickly sketch the layout of a room and then ask ChatGPT to turn it into a realistic interior design image. A fashion creator could draw the rough outline of an outfit and provide instructions about the fabric, colours and overall style.
According to OpenAI, users can access Sketch on mobile by typing @ in the message box and selecting Sketch. They can then draw their idea, confirm the sketch and provide additional written instructions. ChatGPT Images help guide
How much faster is ChatGPT Images 2.5?
OpenAI says image-generation latency has been reduced by up to 50% compared with Images 2.0.
The improvement is significant for people who use AI images interactively. Faster generation means users can try an idea, make changes and generate another version without waiting as long between iterations.
This could be particularly useful for creators working through multiple versions of social media graphics, product concepts, illustrations and marketing assets.
What has improved in image editing?
Images 2.5 is not simply focused on generating a better-looking image from scratch. OpenAI has also worked on making editing more precise.
Users can give instructions about specific changes while asking the model to preserve other elements. The system is designed to maintain details from earlier edits more consistently during longer conversations.
For example, a user could change the background of an image, then adjust clothing, then modify lighting without having the entire composition substantially change with every new request.
Can ChatGPT Images 2.5 preserve people and reference photos better?
OpenAI says Images 2.5 is better at preserving subjects from reference photos, while early testing by Axios also found improvements in maintaining the likeness of people and pets.
This is an important area for AI image tools because users often want to transform an existing photograph without losing the identity or important visual characteristics of the original subject.
The improvement could make the tool more useful for creators who want to produce variations of existing visual assets rather than generating completely unrelated images.
What other features are coming with Images 2.5?
Sketch is part of a broader set of new image-creation and editing tools.
OpenAI has also introduced templates for formats such as flyers and product photography. Users can customise these templates instead of starting every project with a blank prompt.
Another addition is the ability to place comments directly on images to describe what should be changed. OpenAI is also introducing prompt sharing, allowing users to share the prompt behind an image so others can experiment with their own photos and details.
Who can use ChatGPT Images 2.5?
OpenAI says ChatGPT Images 2.5 is rolling out to ChatGPT, ChatGPT Work and Codex users across desktop, mobile and web.
The company has also introduced two Images 2.5 models for developers through its API: GPT-Image-2.5 Flare and GPT-Image-2.5 Sunburst.
Flare is positioned as the general-purpose option, while Sunburst is designed for more detailed creative workflows where additional precision is more important than generation speed.
What does Images 2.5 mean for creators?
The biggest change may not be image quality alone but the increased number of ways users can communicate their ideas.
Text prompts work well when someone can describe an idea clearly, but some visual concepts are easier to draw than explain. Sketch gives users another input method, allowing a rough visual structure to become part of the prompt itself.
That makes the process feel less like simply asking an AI to create something and more like collaborating with an image-generation system.
Is ChatGPT Images 2.5 available for free?
OpenAI says Images 2.5 is rolling out across all ChatGPT tiers on desktop, mobile and web. However, the exact usage limits can vary depending on the user's ChatGPT plan and current product limits.
For developers, the two API models are available separately under OpenAI's API offering.
Why does the Sketch feature matter?
Sketch could make AI image generation more accessible to people who struggle to describe visual ideas through text.
A rough drawing can communicate composition, positioning and shapes that might require a long written prompt. The feature could therefore be particularly useful for designers, marketers, social media creators and people working on early visual concepts.
At the same time, the feature does not eliminate the need for clear instructions. The sketch provides the visual starting point, while the written prompt can still specify the style, colours, materials, lighting and other details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ChatGPT Images 2.5?
ChatGPT Images 2.5 is OpenAI's latest image-generation model, offering improved image quality, faster generation and more precise multi-turn editing.
What is Sketch in ChatGPT?
Sketch lets users draw a rough visual idea inside ChatGPT and use it as a reference for generating an image. Users can combine the drawing with written instructions.
Is ChatGPT Images 2.5 available on mobile?
Yes. OpenAI says Images 2.5 is available across desktop, mobile and web. The Sketch feature is currently documented for the ChatGPT mobile experience.
How much faster is Images 2.5?
OpenAI says Images 2.5 can reduce image-generation latency by up to 50% compared with Images 2.0.