Last year, Google introduced Vids—a modern video editing tool integrated into its Google Workspace productivity suite. This Wednesday, the tech giant expanded Vids’ capabilities with a suite of new features, including AI avatars, automated transcript trimming, and image-to-video conversion tools. Additionally, Google launched a free, feature-limited version of the editor tailored for everyday consumers.
The consumer-facing iteration of Vids includes essential editing controls, along with access to Google’s library of templates, font options, and stock media. Notably, however, AI-powered features will not be available in this free version at launch.
In the corporate space, startups like Synthesia and D-ID already offer businesses AI avatar technology and related tools to produce training and educational videos. Google is now bringing a comparable solution to its Workspace customers via Vids. The value proposition remains consistent: For teams working with limited video production budgets, AI tools can streamline content creation.
Here’s how it works: Users input a script, select an AI avatar from a diverse range of voice options and character personas, and the platform generates a video. Google first announced this AI avatar feature at its Google I/O conference in May, releasing it as a beta version shortly after. Now, the feature has officially moved out of beta and is available for general use.
Another new addition to Vids is an intelligent video editing tool that automatically identifies filler words (such as “um” or “ah”) and extended pauses in footage. Users can simply click on these unwanted elements to delete them, and the editor will adjust the video seamlessly to maintain flow.
Back in July, Google rolled out image-to-video generation for its Veo 3 platform. This functionality has now been integrated into Vids, allowing users to create short, eight-second video clips from static images.
Beyond these launched features, Google revealed it is developing additional tools for Vids, including noise cancellation, Google Meet-style virtual backgrounds and effects, and support for multiple video sizing formats (portrait, landscape, and square). The company has not yet announced specific release dates for these upcoming updates.
Access to Vids’ new AI-driven features is restricted to certain user groups: Google Workspace Business or Enterprise Starter subscribers, Google AI Pro or Ultra plan holders, and customers of Google Workspace for Education.