Meta introduces new AI technologies for video generation

Meta has announced the introduction of innovative AI models that enable the creation of realistic videos based on text inputs. This innovation competes with similar offerings from companies like OpenAI and Runway, which also focus on filmmakers and content creators. The newly developed "Movie Gen" is a collection of storytelling models that can perform various tasks. These include generating videos up to 16 seconds long, video editing, synchronizing sounds with video content, and personalizing videos with specific images. Meta plans to provide these video generation tools to artists, filmmakers, and influencers who are active on Instagram and Facebook. After OpenAI announced its own video model "Sora" in February, it demonstrated it to the film industry, but an official product launch is still pending. Meta recently showcased initial video examples of its models. However, integration into the company's apps is not expected before next year. Connor Hayes, Vice President for Generative AI Products at Meta, stated that current video editing functions on platforms like Instagram still do not meet expectations in terms of speed and user-friendliness. Nevertheless, Meta sees great potential for use in features like Instagram Reels. The development of these models is part of a broader effort by tech giants to supply the entertainment industry, including the advertising sector, with new AI tools. Significant monetization opportunities can arise here for the technological advancements of AI. Start-ups like Runway have already formed partnerships, such as with Lionsgate, to develop customized models based on well-known films like "Twilight" and "The Hunger Games." Meta claims that its videos surpass the competition in terms of quality, motion, naturalness, and consistency. These evaluations are based on neutral human assessments. Meta's AI models utilize a combination of licensed and publicly available datasets, with continued restraint in disclosing detailed information. However, the artificially generated videos have raised concerns, especially regarding the replication of individuals and the potential impact on jobs for actors and production staff. Meta emphasizes that these AI technologies are not intended to replace the creative input of artists and animators but continues to seek feedback from filmmakers. To avoid copyright issues and the creation of deepfakes, Meta plans to watermark all videos generated by the AI. These measures are considered essential steps before such a product can be responsibly launched.