Google has unveiled significant updates to its video editing tool, Google Vids, making it more accessible and versatile than ever. Once limited to paying Google Workspace customers, this tool is now free for anyone with a Google account, while introducing a host of advanced AI-powered features that elevate its functionality.
Google Vids: Simplifying video creation for all
Google Vids aims to simplify video creation, catering to students, professionals, and small businesses alike. Unlike complex video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, Google Vids provides an intuitive interface reminiscent of tools like Canva. Users can access preset templates, stock media, and a timeline for easy editing.
With Google Vids, users can upload audio, video, GIFs, and stickers in various formats, record via webcam, and even capture screen activity. The software also features multi-layer audio support, customizable text and objects, and precise timeline controls for scene transitions and visual effects.
AI upgrades for enhanced creativity
Integrating Google’s Gemini AI technology brings a suite of advanced tools to the platform, particularly for paid Workspace customers or those with Gemini Pro and Ultra subscriptions. These AI tools enable users to generate videos from scratch simply by describing the desired content, complete with voiceovers and stock visuals.
One standout feature is the image-to-video conversion tool, which is especially beneficial for small businesses. By transforming images into videos, it provides an affordable solution for product marketing. Google Vids introduces AI avatars that can deliver scripts on-screen, making it ideal for training sessions, demos, and onboarding. As Google puts it, "It’s ideal for things like trainings, demos, onboarding, and more."
Another notable AI feature is automatic transcript trimming. This tool generates a transcript of the video, removes unnecessary pauses and filler words, and seamlessly integrates the adjustments back into the video - saving users significant time and effort.
Accessibility and upcoming features
While some features are exclusive to paid plans, the free version of Google Vids still offers robust editing capabilities. Integrated with Google’s ecosystem, it streamlines video creation and editing for users without access to high-end hardware or advanced software.
Looking ahead, Google plans to roll out additional features, including noise cancellation, backgrounds, filters, and appearance adjustments. By the end of the year, users will be able to create content in portrait and square aspect ratios.
Google has also launched an educational series, "Vids on Vids", to help new users get started with the platform. To access Google Vids, users can type "vids.new" in their browser or find it in the app launcher on desktops.
By making the tool free and enhancing it with AI capabilities, Google Vids positions itself as a game-changing solution for video creation, catering to a wide range of users and needs.