# OpenAI expands enterprise focus and image generation tools

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ai-driven-social-media-photo-editing-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-11T05:36:14.000Z. Sources: 110. Developments: 3.

The trend of using generative AI to transform selfies into 1980s-style portraits has reached a massive scale, with reports indicating a 5,000% increase in related searches. Users on platforms like Instagram and TikTok utilize tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini to recreate period-accurate elements like voluminous hairstyles and neon colors. Technological advancements have allowed for better simulation of analog photography, incorporating film grain and vintage textures.

In a strategic shift, OpenAI is now pivoting toward the enterprise market, targeting specialized industries such as financial services and life sciences. CFO Sarah Friar noted a move toward outcome-based pricing models to provide measurable ROI for business clients, alongside the introduction of lower-cost models to compete with open-source alternatives. To support this growth, OpenAI is investing in computing infrastructure, including the development of its own inference chip, ‘Jalapeño,’ expected by the end of 2026.

Technological updates include the release of ChatGPT Images 2.5, which offers improved lighting, richer textures, and a 50% reduction in generation latency. A key addition is the ‘Sketch’ feature, which allows users to create rough drawings within the chat window using various pencils and color palettes. By typing ‘@Sketch’, users can transform drawings into professional-grade images using templates like ‘bobblehead’, ‘statue’, or ‘anime’. The tool supports advanced editing, such as erasing elements, resizing, and removing backgrounds. Adobe has further integrated OpenAI’s GPT Image models into its Firefly AI platform, while OpenAI reports its weekly active user base has surpassed 1 billion.

## Claims

- A new feature called Sketch allows users to draw directly in the interface to serve as a visual reference. (corroborated by 7 sources)
- OpenAI released ChatGPT Images 2.5, featuring improved lighting, richer textures, and better subject preservation. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Image generation latency has been reduced by up to 50% compared to Images 2.0. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- OpenAI introduced two new API models: Flare for speed and Sunburst for high-end visual workflows. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Weekly active users for OpenAI products, including ChatGPT, have exceeded 1 billion. (single source)
- OpenAI plans to introduce its own inference chip, Jalapeño, by the end of 2026. (single source)
- Adobe has integrated OpenAI's GPT Image models directly into the Adobe Firefly platform. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-11: OpenAI launches ChatGPT Sketch feature for image generation

OpenAI’s new ChatGPT ‘Sketch’ feature allows users to convert rough hand-drawn sketches into polished, professional images using AI-driven templates and advanced editing tools.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/openai-launches-chatgpt-sketch-feature-for-image-generation

### 2026-09-07: OpenAI pivots to enterprise market and launches ChatGPT Images 2.5

OpenAI is pivoting toward enterprise markets with outcome-based pricing and has released ChatGPT Images 2.5, featuring the new Sketch tool and faster generation speeds.

105 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ai-driven-1980s-photo-trend-sparks-social-media-privacy-concerns

### 2026-09-03: Social media photo editing trend involves AI and gig economy

A social media trend involving AI-driven photo editing requests is evolving from legitimate restoration into a competitive gig economy and a source of offensive, mocking content.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/social-media-users-drive-new-ai-photo-editing-trend

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Cite as: OpenAI expands enterprise focus and image generation tools. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ai-driven-social-media-photo-editing-trends
