Google Vids adds AI avatars powered by Veo and Lyria
▼ Summary
– Google is advancing its Vids video editing tool with new AI models and controllable avatars, contrasting with OpenAI’s reported pullback in video generation.
– The core upgrade is the integration of the Veo 3.1 model, which improves video realism and was first deployed in Gemini late last year.
– Google positions Vids for practical uses like creating party flyers or business reels, not filmmaking, and it is free with limited generations.
– Access is tiered: free accounts get 10 videos monthly, while paid AI Pro and AI Ultra plans offer 50 and 1,000 generations, respectively.
– The tool also integrates Lyria AI music models that generate short tracks based on a described vibe, with higher limits for subscribers.
While OpenAI scales back its video generation ambitions, Google is doubling down, injecting its Vids editing platform with powerful new AI capabilities. The latest update integrates the company’s most advanced video and audio models, introducing a suite of controllable AI avatars and streamlined YouTube sharing. This move positions Google Vids as a more accessible and creative tool for everyday users, distinct from the professional filmmaker focus of its underlying technology.
The centerpiece of this upgrade is Veo 3.1, Google’s flagship video generation model. First released in Gemini late last year, this iteration offers significant gains in visual realism and temporal consistency. Within Vids, however, its application is geared toward casual, practical projects. Google promotes the tool for crafting animated party invitations, short business promotional clips, or personalized video greeting cards. Access to Vids is free, but generating content relies on an AI subscription tier. Without one, users are limited to just 10 video creations monthly.
Subscription plans dictate output capacity. An AI Pro subscription raises the monthly limit to 50 videos, while users on the premium AI Ultra plan, for personal or enterprise use, receive a generous allowance of 1,000 generations. Consistent with other Veo applications, videos produced in Vids are standardized at eight seconds in length and 720p resolution.
Audio creation receives a parallel boost with the inclusion of Lyria, Google’s AI music generation model. The latest version simplifies the process further, eliminating the need for typed lyrics. Users simply describe a desired mood or atmosphere, and the AI composes a matching soundtrack, available in 30-second or three-minute durations. The output may not rival professional composition, but it serves its purpose for quick, functional projects like digital birthday cards. Similar to video generation, AI subscription tiers determine the monthly limits for AI music creation.
(Source: Ars Technica)
