Google is giving Vids, its modern video editor for Google Workspace, a major upgrade. The app now adds AI avatars, automatic cleanup of filler words and awkward pauses, and image-to-video generation. There’s also a new free version for consumers with core editing tools to help anyone get started.
What’s new in Vids
– AI avatars for quick video creation: Paste a script, pick an avatar with a voice and persona, and generate a video without a production crew. First announced at Google I/O and previously in beta, the feature is now generally available to eligible Workspace customers.
– Automatic transcript trimming: Vids can detect filler words like “um” and “ah,” as well as long silences. Click to remove them and the video timeline adjusts automatically, speeding up editing while keeping everything in sync.
– Image-to-video generation: Using tech from Veo 3, Vids can turn images into eight-second video clips, making it easier to add motion to presentations, explainers, and social posts.
Free version for consumers
A no-cost edition of Vids is rolling out with the essentials: basic editing controls, access to Google’s template library, fonts, and stock media. AI features aren’t included in the free tier yet, but it’s a convenient way to learn the tool and produce polished videos quickly.
On the roadmap
Google says it’s working on:
– Noise cancellation
– Google Meet-style backgrounds and visual effects
– New aspect ratios, including portrait, landscape, and square
Release timing for these additions hasn’t been shared.
Who gets the AI features
The new AI-powered capabilities in Vids are available to:
– Workspace Business or Enterprise Starter users
– Google AI Pro or Ultra subscribers
– Workspace for Education customers
Why it matters
For teams producing training, onboarding, explainers, or social content on a tight budget, Vids promises faster turnaround and fewer production hurdles. With script-to-video avatars, one-click filler-word removal, and lightweight motion graphics, it brings pro-style results within reach—no studio required.
