The CultCast Sora takes over the App Store… unfortunately (CultCast #720)
Oct 9, 2025
Sora is taking the App Store by storm with its AI-generated videos, raising questions about creativity versus potential misinformation. OpenAI faces significant challenges in launching its own iPhone killer, grappling with privacy and operational limitations. The hosts also discuss updates from the upcoming iOS 26.1, including multitasking features and call screening options. Plus, insights into the Mac switcher experience and Apple’s complicated relationship with enterprise products add depth to the conversation.
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Sora's Realism Threatens Trust
- Sora is an iPhone-only app that generates photorealistic short videos from text or images and quickly hit #1 on the App Store.
- Hosts warn its realism will erode trust in visual media and accelerate misinformation risks.
Creating Lifelike Cameos Is Surprising Simple
- iJustine created a Sora cameo of herself by filming a simple short clip and the app produced a lifelike talking avatar.
- Hosts were stunned that creating a convincing personal avatar seemed easier than setting up Face ID.
Guardrails Reduce But Don't Eliminate Risk
- OpenAI added guardrails limiting proper nouns and copyrighted content in Sora, reducing some risky outputs.
- Hosts note users already find ways to remove watermarks and bypass protections.