Google Vids gets AI upgrade with Veo and Lyria models, directable AI avatars (arstechnica.com)

Google has announced a significant upgrade to its Vids video editing tool, integrating the advanced Veo 3.1 and Lyria music creation models. This update allows users to generate videos featuring controllable AI avatars and simplifies sharing on YouTube. The Veo 3.1 model, which previously improved realism and consistency in the Gemini suite, is now tailored for user-friendly applications like creating animated flyers, business reels, and greeting cards. However, free users face strict limits, only able to generate 10 videos per month, while paid subscribers can create up to 1,000 videos depending on their chosen plan. The inclusion of the Lyria model enhances the music aspect of Vids, enabling users to create custom tracks based on desired moods without needing to input lyrics. While these tools may not achieve high artistic values, they cater to practical needs, especially for casual users looking to create quick, engaging content. This upgrade positions Google as a strong competitor in the AI-driven content creation space, continuing its push to democratize video and audio production for a broader audience.