Google Vids Adds AI Avatars & Launches Consumer Version

Google Vids Receives Significant Updates and a Consumer Launch

Last year marked the introduction of Google Vids, a next-generation video editor integrated within the Google Workspace suite. This Wednesday, the company announced the addition of several new capabilities, including AI avatars, automated transcript refinement, and tools for converting images into video content.

Simultaneously, Google is releasing a free version of the editor intended for general consumers, albeit with a reduced feature set.

Free Version Features

The consumer-focused version will provide access to fundamental editing controls. Users will also gain access to Google’s extensive template library, diverse font options, and a comprehensive stock media collection.

However, it’s important to note that AI-powered features will not be included in this free offering at this time.

AI Avatars and Business Applications

Within the business sector, companies like Synthesia and D-ID already provide AI avatar technology and associated tools for creating training and educational videos. Google is now introducing a comparable feature to Vids for its Workspace clientele.

The underlying principle remains consistent: offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional video production through the utilization of artificial intelligence.

Users can simply input a script, choose an avatar from a selection of voices and personas, and generate a video.

Initially unveiled at Google I/O in May and subsequently released in beta, the AI avatars feature is now generally available.

Enhanced Editing Capabilities

Google is also implementing an intelligent video editing function. This feature automatically identifies and flags filler words, such as “um” and “ah,” as well as extended pauses.

Users can then easily remove these unwanted elements with a single click, and the editor will dynamically adjust the video timeline accordingly.

google vids adds ai avatars to its video editor and launches a consumer version

Image-to-Video Functionality

The image-to-video generation capability, previously available for Veo 3 in July, is now being integrated into Vids.

This allows users to create concise, eight-second video clips directly from still images.

Future Developments

Google has indicated that further enhancements are in development. These include noise reduction technology, the addition of Google Meet-style backgrounds and visual effects, and support for various aspect ratios – portrait, landscape, and square.

However, a specific release timeline for these upcoming features has not yet been disclosed.