On Thursday, Google introduced multiple updates to its Vids app that provide improved functionality to users. The updated app provides users with the ability to manage AI avatars through the use of plain text commands, integrates the Veo 3.1 video generation model, and allows users to upload finalized videos to YouTube, and provide recording capabilities for users’ screens via a new extension for Chrome. Overall, these updates enable users to create and share work videos with a minimal amount of effort, and no requirement for advanced editing skills.
Key Takeaways:
- Users can direct AI avatars to perform specific actions using natural language prompts.
- The Veo 3.1 model now allows for the creation of eight-second video clips inside the app.
- A new Chrome extension enables screen and audio recording for quick video assembly.
- Finished projects can be exported directly to YouTube as private videos for review.
- Avatar customization now includes options to change clothing, appearance, and backgrounds.
Google Vids offers AI-assisted video editing capabilities specific to work and business team scenarios. Users can create presentations, training videos, and internal videos. Most recently, Google has updated its AI avatars to provide greater flexibility. These avatars can now be directed to perform actions beyond standing and speaking.
Directing AI Avatars with Text
The most notable update has to do with user engagement with digital avatars. Users can now enter commands for an avatar to perform actions in the scene. As an example, a user may request an avatar to point at a particular item or use certain office supplies. Also, the avatar moving or changing poses, the system is designed to keep the character uniform throughout the duration of the video.
The level of personalization available is better than ever. Users can adjust character appearance, clothing, and with the use of prompts, the background of the video can be modified. This is a great way to stay aligned with a company’s branding and aesthetic.
Veo 3.1 and Music Tools
Google is integrating the Veo 3.1 model into the app that will be able to create video clips that are a maximum of 8 seconds long. This is a recent update following last month’s addition of Lyria 3 music models, which aid users in generating personalized music or sound effect tracks.
The number of videos that can be created is dependent on the type of account the user has. Each user is allotted 10 video generations in a month, but those who have subscriptions to Google AI Ultra or Workspace AI Ultra can generate videos up to 1,000 times a month. These AI tools enable users to create videos to compliment a presentation by filling in the gaps if a user does not have their own videos to provide.
New Options for Exporting and Recording
Google has expedited the sharing process for videos. The company has added a direct export feature for a user’s YouTube channel. When a user shares a video to the YouTube platform, it automatically goes to private status. This feature lets the user finalise the video before other people can view it.
As part of the content creation process, Google has also released a Chrome browser screen-recording extension. Chrome is the Google web browser primarily used to surf the web. This extension allows the user to record their screen and/or voice and/or camera and directly upload that content to their Vids project.
Vids were first shown by Google in 2024. Vids were created for businesses so they could easily create videos. In February, Google added 2D and 3D avatars and voice-over support for an additional seven languages: now including Japanese, Portuguese, and Italian. This update reinforces the focus on video production, particularly for office workers in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I use the new avatar prompts in Google Vids?
A1: You can type instructions in the prompt box within the Vids editor. You can tell the avatar to interact with an object or move in a certain way, and the AI will generate the motion for you.
Q2: Can I use Google Vids for free?
A2: Google Vids is mainly available for Google Workspace users. While there are free tiers for some features, advanced AI tools like Veo 3.1 have monthly limits based on your specific subscription plan.
Q3: What is Veo 3.1 in Google Vids?
A3: Veo 3.1 is a Google AI model that creates short, high-quality video clips from text descriptions. In Vids, it allows you to generate eight-second clips to use in your projects.
Q4: Does exporting to YouTube make my video public immediately?
A4: No. When you export from Vids to YouTube, the video is uploaded as a private file. You must manually change the settings on YouTube if you want other people to watch it.
