To make video production more accessible to both individuals and businesses, Google has announced major updates to Google Vids, its AI-powered video creation tool.
On Wednesday, the company unveiled a number of new features, including tools for converting images into animated clips, AI avatars that can deliver scripts, and more intelligent editing options that make video polishing much simpler.
Vids has already surpassed one million monthly active users since its launch for Workspace users last year, indicating that both individuals and businesses are eager for easier, AI-powered video creation.
Veo 3 Makes Pictures Come to Life
A new image-to-video function driven by Google’s Veo 3 model is the most notable update. With this feature, users can type in a brief prompt, upload a static image, and watch as it turns into an animated, sound-added, eight-second video clip that’s ideal for presentations or social media posts.
In a blog post on Wednesday, Google stated, “This means you can make animated video clips with native audio that are in line with your brand by uploading a product shot or company stock photography and using a text prompt.”
AI Avatars with Smarter Editing
Google is introducing AI avatars for people who are afraid to appear in front of a camera. With the help of this widely accessible feature, users can create videos without live recording by choosing an avatar and writing a script. The presentation is managed by the AI, making it ideal for onboarding, training, demos, and more.
Google has also added a transcript trimming feature to make editing easier and eliminate the hassle of polishing a video. With just a few clicks, the “transcript trim” feature helps creators avoid time-consuming manual edits by automatically eliminating awkward pauses and filler words like “um” and “ah.”
Similar to Google Meet, Vids will launch features like noise cancellation, backgrounds, filters, and appearance enhancements the following month.
More Formats and Access
In response to user feedback, Google has announced that Vids will soon support square, portrait, and landscape formats, which will make it simpler to make platform-specific videos. Next quarter, this feature will be widely accessible.
Access is growing as well. Google has released a basic, free version of Vids for all Google account holders, in addition to Workspace Business, Enterprise Starter, AI Pro, or Ultra subscribers and education customers. Although AI tools are not included in this basic editor, it does have new templates for things like tutorials, event invites, tips and tricks, and even a teaser for the launch of your most recent podcast.
“Helping On Vids”: Assisting Users in Learning
Google has introduced a new series of tutorials called “Vids on Vids” to assist novices. The series walks users through every step of the process, from creating AI-powered video narratives to utilizing animations and transitions.
Companies like Mercer International and FullStory are already using video for critical content creation and employee safety training.
“Google Video has allowed us to create safety content that is developed and curated by our organization, rather than having to go to the market and source costly resources,” said Alistair Skye, CIO of Mercer International.
Video for every person
Users of Google Workspace Business and Enterprise Starter, as well as subscribers to the AI Pro, Ultra, and Education plans, will be able to use Vids’ full AI editor.
Google wants to make video production as easy, quick, and routine as creating slideshows by implementing the aforementioned changes.
