Google has recently launched and released a new AI-powered video creation tool called Google Vids. As an early access tool integrated within Google Workspace, Google Vids simplifies the process of creating videos using AI.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including how to gain access, create videos, and explore its features step by step.
What is Google Vids?
Google Vids is an AI tool that transforms text prompts into videos. Built on Google Workspace, it integrates seamlessly with apps like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, making it an excellent option for work-related video creation.
Currently, Google Vids is available in Google Workspace. I’ll explain how you can check your eligibility and start using it if invited.
Why Google Vids AI is a Time-Saver?
Here’s a quick overview of its standout features:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Pre-designed templates | Quick start with minimal setup effort. |
| Gemini-generated storyboard | Automated outline and draft creation. |
| Professional voiceovers | High-quality narration without recording. |
| Content library | Access to royalty-free assets. |
| Collaboration tools | Real-time editing with team members. |
| Transcript editing | Polished audio without re-recording. |
How to Get Access to Google Vids?
Accessing Google Vids requires an invitation through Google Workspace Labs, Google’s experimental platform for new AI tools.
Here’s how you can check if you’re eligible:
Step 1: Verify Access
- Open Google Docs:
- Log into your Google Workspace account.
- Open Google Docs and look for the “Help me write” feature.
- If it’s available, you’re part of Google Labs.
- Check Workspace Labs:
- Visit labs.google.
- This site showcases other experimental AI tools like Google Notebook LM.
Step 2: Receive an Email Invitation
- Google sends out invitations when your account is granted access.
- Once invited, you can directly access the tool by navigating to docs.google.com/videos.
Getting Started with Google Vids
When you access Google Vids, you’ll land on its interface. Here, you can choose how to begin creating your video.
There are several options available:
- Create from a Prompt: If you have access to Gemini AI, you can start by describing your video in a few sentences.
- Templates: Choose from a variety of templates tailored to different industries and sectors.
- Start from a Recording: Use a screen or webcam recording as your starting point.
- Upload Files: Upload a video, GIF, or image to kick off your creation.
Creating Videos with Google Vids
Once you have access, creating videos is straightforward. Here’s a detailed step-by-step process:
Step 1: Open Google Vids
- Go to docs.google.com/videos.
- Click the + icon to start a new video project.
Step 2: Enter a Text Prompt
- Describe your video in a few sentences in the provided prompt box.
- Use the @mention feature to include files from Google Drive (e.g., Docs, Sheets) as input for your video.
Step 3: Generate the Video
- After entering your prompt, the tool uses Google Gemini AI to create a video outline.
- You can manually edit the text or content within the outline for more customization.
Exploring Video Templates and Options
Google Vids provides various templates to design your videos. However, during my testing, I found only three template options available at the moment.
Here’s how to navigate and use them:
1. Select a Template:
Choose one of the available layouts.
This helps you set the tone and style of your video.
2. Preview Your Video:
The draft preview includes placeholder text and animations.
Review the preview before finalizing your video.
3. Edit Slides:
All slides are fully editable, similar to Google Slides.
Double-click on any text box or image to modify it.
How to use Storyboard feature in Google Vids?
Step 1: Moving from an Idea to a Storyboard
Let’s someone wants to create a short product overview video to share with the sales team.
Here’s how he/she begins:
- Choosing a Starting Point
- User can select from a variety of pre-designed templates or use Gemini in Vids to generate a storyboard quickly.
- User opts to use Gemini, providing a prompt and attaching launch plan document.
- Generating a Storyboard
- Based on users’s input, Gemini suggests a structured outline.
- User edits and fine-tunes the content to match vision.
- Next, she selects a preferred visual style.
- Automated Draft Creation
- Using Gemini’s tools, Vids assembles a draft that includes:
- Stock videos
- Images
- Text
- Background music
- A generated script
- Using Gemini’s tools, Vids assembles a draft that includes:
Step 2: Adding a Voiceover
Vids adds voice with professional preset voices.
- Selecting a Voice
- User browses through a variety of options, each with its unique tone.
- User previews the voices and picks one that aligns with video.
- Script Integration
- The voiceover aligns perfectly with the script, making the narration engaging and natural.
Step 3: Enriching the Story with Visuals and Music
The content library in Vids offers a treasure trove of creative assets to enhance your video.
- Royalty-Free Content
- User can access a range of stock videos, images, and background music.
- User incorporates these elements to elevate the storytelling.
- Personal Touches
- To make the video more dynamic, user adds creative flair, ensuring the visuals align messaging.
Advanced Features of Google Vids
Google Vids stands out by offering a variety of features for video customization:
Text Editing
- Like Google Slides, text boxes in each slide can be easily edited.
- You can replace placeholder text with your own content.
Image Customization
- Upload images or choose from AI-suggested visuals.
- Features like background removal allow for precise adjustments.
Adding External Data
- Use the @mention feature to pull data from Google Docs or Sheets directly into your video.
Customizing Media and Transitions
Google Vids offers extensive customization options:
- Stock Media: Add videos, images, GIFs, or web images.
- Upload Media: Import your own recordings or files.
- Templates: Switch or customize templates at any point.
- Text and Shapes: Insert text boxes or shapes as needed.
- Transitions: Adjust transitions between scenes, similar to Google Slides.
Soundtrack Options
You can modify the soundtrack by:
- Changing the audio.
- Adjusting volume and fade effects.
- Splitting or duplicating audio tracks.
Use Cases and Examples
Google Vids is particularly useful for creating work-related videos, such as:
Training Videos:
Ideal for remote team-building sessions or tutorials.
Internal Communication:
Share presentations or updates within organizations.
For example, I tested Google Vids by creating a training video for remote team building. Within seconds, the tool generated a detailed outline, which I edited further to suit my needs.
It’s much quicker than manually creating a slide deck or hiring a production company.
My Experience with Google Vids
I’ve created several videos using Google Vids, and the process was impressively fast. From entering a prompt to finalizing the video, it only took a few seconds per project. The manual control over text, images, and animations made it easy to customize videos as needed.
Google Vids Limitations and Observations
While the tool is promising, there are some limitations:
- The available templates are currently limited to three styles.
- Placeholder text in drafts requires manual replacement, which can be time-consuming for longer videos.
Conclusion
Google Vids represents a significant step forward in simplifying video creation for professionals. Its seamless integration with Google Workspace apps allows users to create polished videos using data from Docs, Sheets, and Drive.
If you’re part of the Google Workspace Labs, I highly recommend exploring this tool to streamline your work-related video projects.
