OpenAI's ChatGPT Images 2.5 launches two new image models — Flare for speed and Sunburst for precision — plus Sketch, templates, and shareable prompts.
OpenAI has released ChatGPT Images 2.5, a major update to its image generation platform featuring two new models, a built-in drawing tool, and ready-made templates. With over three billion images generated weekly on the platform, this update brings sharper details, more precise editing, and faster generation to users worldwide, including Hong Kong creators who rely on AI image tools for their work.
Two New Models Built for Different Workflows
OpenAI introduced GPT-Image-2.5 Flare and GPT-Image-2.5 Sunburst. Flare is the default model, offering higher image quality than its predecessor at 50 percent lower latency — making it ideal for everyday creative tasks where speed matters. Sunburst is the more powerful option, designed for demanding visual work with tighter control over edits and longer generation times. For HK agencies producing client-facing visuals, Sunburst offers the precision needed for complex brand assets.
Both models introduce new quality tiers: in addition to low and high, Images 2.5 adds "xhigh" and "max" tiers. A 1024x1024 image at max tier costs roughly $0.21, placing it at the same price point as the previous generation's high tier. Creators get significantly better quality without proportionally higher costs.
Sketch, Templates, and Shareable Prompts
The most notable new feature is Sketch, activated with the @Sketch command. It lets users draw directly in ChatGPT and use the sketch as a visual template for the final image. For HK designers, this bridges the gap between rough ideation and polished output — sketch a layout on a tablet, describe it, and get a finished visual.
Templates provide pre-built structures for posters, logos, infographics, thumbnails, illustrations, and ads. Instead of starting from a blank prompt, creators answer targeted questions to fill in requirements. Users can place comments directly on images and share the prompts they used, making collaboration faster across teams.
Precision Editing That Changes Only What You Ask
A key focus of Images 2.5 is precision editing. The models change only the requested elements while leaving the rest untouched — even across multiple editing rounds. For Hong Kong brands maintaining consistent product photography or marketing assets, this is a significant workflow improvement. In testing through ChatGPT Work, the model reliably changed one element without altering backgrounds or other subjects.
Leaderboard Performance
On the Arena text-to-image leaderboard, both new models hold the top spots. Sunburst leads with a score of 1421, followed by Flare at 1399. Their predecessor GPT-Image-2 sits at 1381. While these scores are preliminary and based on lower vote counts, the strong showing confirms OpenAI's position at the frontier of AI image generation.
What This Means for HK Creators
For Hong Kong creatives using cooly.ai, the ChatGPT Images 2.5 update means faster iteration, better control, and new creative possibilities. The Flare model's 50% latency reduction makes it practical for real-time client feedback sessions. Sunburst's precision suits high-stakes brand work. Features like Sketch and Templates reduce the gap between concept and execution, helping agencies turn ideas into polished visuals faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does ChatGPT Images 2.5 cost per image? A: A 1024x1024 image at low tier costs about $0.006, high tier about $0.053, and max tier about $0.21. Pricing varies between Flare and Sunburst due to different token usage patterns.
Q: Is ChatGPT Images 2.5 available in Hong Kong? A: Yes, it's available worldwide for all ChatGPT, ChatGPT Work, and Codex users across desktop, mobile, and web, including the free version.
Q: Can I use ChatGPT Images 2.5 alongside other AI tools on cooly.ai? A: Yes. ChatGPT Images 2.5 works well alongside other models available through cooly.ai, giving HK creators a broader toolkit for different project needs.
Q: What's the difference between Flare and Sunburst? A: Flare is the faster default model with 50% lower latency than GPT-Image-2. Sunburst offers tighter editing control and higher precision but requires longer generation times.
Q: Does Images 2.5 support transparent backgrounds? A: Yes, the models handle transparent backgrounds and complex layouts better than previous versions.