Midjourney V1: AI Video Generation is Here

Midjourney Launches its AI Video Generation Model, V1

Midjourney, a leading AI image generation company, revealed its long-awaited AI video model, V1, on Wednesday.

V1 functions as an image-to-video tool. Users can upload existing images, or utilize images previously created with other Midjourney models, to generate a series of four five-second videos.

Availability and Access

Similar to Midjourney’s image creation tools, V1 is currently accessible exclusively through Discord. Initially, it is only available via web access.

Competition and Future Goals

The introduction of V1 positions Midjourney alongside other companies developing AI video generation technologies. Competitors include OpenAI with Sora, Runway’s Gen 4, Adobe’s Firefly, and Google’s Veo 3.

However, Midjourney distinguishes itself by focusing on creative applications rather than solely commercial uses. The company envisions broader applications for its AI video models.

Beyond Commercial Applications

According to Midjourney CEO David Holz, the AI video model represents a crucial step towards the company’s ultimate objective: developing AI capable of creating real-time, open-world simulations.

Future development plans include AI models for 3D rendering and real-time AI applications.

Legal Challenges and Copyright Concerns

The launch of V1 follows a recent lawsuit filed against Midjourney by major Hollywood studios, Disney and Universal.

The lawsuit alleges that images generated by Midjourney’s AI models infringe on copyrighted characters, such as Homer Simpson and Darth Vader.

Industry Concerns

Hollywood is grappling with the increasing prevalence of AI image and video generation tools. A key concern is the potential for these tools to displace or diminish the value of creative professionals.

Several media companies claim that these AI products are trained using their copyrighted material.

Despite positioning itself as creativity-focused, Midjourney faces these accusations.

Pricing and Subscription Details

Midjourney has implemented a pricing structure that is eight times higher for video generation compared to image generation.

This means subscribers will exhaust their monthly generation allowances more quickly when creating videos.

Subscription Options

The most affordable way to access V1 is through the $10-per-month Basic plan. Subscribers to the $60-per-month Pro plan and $120-per-month Mega plan will receive unlimited video generations in the slower “Relax” mode.

Midjourney plans to re-evaluate its video model pricing within the next month.

Customization Options

V1 offers several customizable settings to control the video output.

Users can choose between automatic animation, which adds random movement, or manual animation, allowing for specific, text-based animation descriptions.

Motion Control and Video Length

Settings also allow users to adjust the amount of camera and subject movement, selecting between “low motion” and “high motion.”

While initial videos are five seconds long, users can extend them by four seconds at a time, up to a maximum length of 21 seconds.

Initial Impressions and Performance

Early demonstrations of V1’s videos showcase a somewhat surreal aesthetic, rather than photorealistic results.

The initial reception to V1 has been positive, although its performance relative to established AI video models remains to be fully assessed.

Other leading AI video models have been available for months, or even years.