Google Vids Adds AI Avatars and Launches Consumer Version
▼ Summary
– Google is adding new features to its Vids video editor, including AI avatars, automatic transcript trimming, and image-to-video tools.
– A free consumer version of Vids is being released with basic edit controls and access to templates, fonts, and stock media, but without AI features.
– AI avatars allow users to input a script and select a persona to generate videos, targeting businesses with budget constraints for video creation.
– The editor now includes a feature that detects and removes filler words and long pauses, automatically adjusting the video timeline.
– These new AI-powered features will be available to specific Google Workspace and AI subscription tiers, with additional capabilities like noise cancellation in development.
Google has expanded its Vids video editor with significant upgrades, including AI avatars and automated transcript trimming, while also introducing a free consumer version with essential editing tools. This strategic move positions Google to compete more directly in the growing market for AI-assisted video creation, offering both professional and casual users new ways to produce engaging content without extensive resources.
The consumer edition of Google Vids provides access to a template library, font collection, and stock media assets, though it currently excludes the more advanced AI functionalities. For business users, however, the platform now integrates synthetic avatar technology, allowing companies to generate training or promotional videos by simply uploading a script and selecting from a range of digital presenters. This approach mirrors services from specialized startups but leverages Google’s widespread ecosystem and integration within Workspace.
Another notable addition is the automatic detection and removal of filler words such as “um” or long pauses. Editors can now clean up dialogue with a single click, streamlining post-production and improving video flow. Additionally, the recently unveiled image-to-video capability from Veo 3 has been incorporated into Vids, enabling the creation of short eight-second clips from still images.
Looking ahead, Google has hinted at upcoming features including noise cancellation, virtual backgrounds similar to Google Meet, and support for multiple aspect ratios like portrait, square, and landscape. While release timelines remain unspecified, these enhancements signal a continued investment in making video production more accessible and efficient.
These AI-driven tools will be available to Google Workspace Business and Enterprise Starter subscribers, as well as those with Google AI Pro or Ultra plans and education customers. The rollout reflects a broader effort to democratize video content creation through automation and artificial intelligence.
(Source: TechCrunch)
