Google Photos has considerably enhanced its AI capabilities, introducing custom text prompts for its photo-to-video feature. This update empowers users with unprecedented control over how their still images are brought to life through animation.
Previously limited to just two animation styles – subtle movement or random effects – users can now leverage the power of descriptive language. By inputting prompts like “gentle breeze moving through trees” or “cinematic zoom focusing on subject’s face,” the AI, powered by Google’s Veo 3 model, interprets these instructions to generate dynamic videos.
This new functionality is part of a consolidated “create” tab within Google Photos, now serving as a hub for eight distinct AI-powered tools. These include Remix,which applies artistic styles inspired by anime adn comic art; Cinematic photo,which adds 3D depth to images; Animation,for creating gifs; and Me Meme,a dedicated meme generator.
The photo-to-video generation feature is currently available in the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, and New Zealand. Though, users in Texas and Illinois are currently excluded due to state privacy laws that restrict the use of facial recognition technology in animation. Users aged 18 and over in eligible regions can generate videos for free, subject to daily usage limits. For increased generation volumes and access to advanced controls, Google offers AI Pro ($19/month) and AI Ultra subscription tiers.