Google has introduced Flow, a new AI filmmaking tool built using its Veo, Imagen and Gemini models. The announcement came during the company’s annual developers conference. Flow allows users to generate cinematic clips and scenes using natural language prompts and custom assets.
Custom Design for Veo and Imagen
Flow is designed specifically for Google’s most advanced models, including Veo 3 for video and Imagen 4 for image generation. Veo 3 includes native audio capabilities, allowing users to generate sounds and dialogue within clips. Imagen 4 supports high-quality image generation from text, aiding scene development.
Gemini Integration for Prompting
Gemini powers Flow’s intuitive prompting system, allowing creators to describe scenes in everyday language. Users can generate images with Imagen or upload their own assets to build characters and scenes. These can then be integrated across multiple clips while maintaining visual consistency.
Feature Set for Filmmakers and Creators
Flow includes camera controls, asset management, a scene builder and Flow TV. Camera controls allow for direct manipulation of angles and motion. The scene builder helps extend shots or transition between them with continuity. Asset management provides tools to organise prompts and elements. Flow TV showcases user-generated content and includes exact prompts used in clips for learning.
Subscription Access for U.S. Users
Flow is now available through Google’s AI Pro and AI Ultra plans in the United States. AI Pro costs $20 per month and includes 100 generations monthly. AI Ultra, at $250 per month, includes advanced Flow features, Veo 3 access and audio generation. Google says more countries will get access soon.
Built on VideoFX Legacy
Flow evolves from Google Labs’ 2023 experiment VideoFX. While Flow uses both Veo and Imagen models, it operates as a separate tool. Users can create videos using text and image prompts and edit them with Flow’s features.
Creators Shape Flow’s Development
Google has collaborated with filmmakers to build Flow. These creators helped test early versions and provided feedback on functionality. Their insights influenced the tool’s current capabilities and user interface.
Featured Creators and Films
Dave Clark, an award-winning filmmaker, used AI to develop two recent films, “Battalion” and “NinjaPunk.” His latest film, “Freelancers,” explores the story of two adopted brothers.
Henry Daubrez has worked with creative tech for 18 years. He used Veo 2 in his short film “Kitsune” and is now making “Electric Pink.”
Junie Lau, a multidisciplinary creative, is developing “Dear Stranger” using Flow. The film explores love between a grandmother and grandchild across parallel worlds.
Focus on Creative Empowerment
Google said Flow was “built by and for creatives” to support storytelling without limits. “We’re excited to shape the future of Flow with creatives and filmmakers,” Google said.
Ongoing Industry Competition
Flow’s launch places Google into direct competition with other AI content tools like OpenAI’s Sora, Adobe Firefly and various AI start-ups. These tools also offer generative video and editing capabilities.
Challenges and Controversies in AI Creation
AI content generation faces scrutiny over training data and model behaviour. Google’s Gemini privacy policy states it may collect data from chats and files. Users must also comply with a prohibited use policy designed to restrict abusive or illegal content.
New AI Announcements from Google
During I/O, Google also launched Gemini Live for Android and iOS at no cost. It revealed Project Starline, a new visual technology built with HP. Google plans to expand AI Overviews in Search, offering features like agentic shopping assistance.
Google also previewed Material 3 Expressive, a new visual identity for Android, and future software for Pixel devices.
Flow Expands AI’s Role in Filmmaking
Google says tools like Flow could help new filmmakers tell their stories more easily. By collaborating with creatives, Google aims to embed Flow into real-world production workflows. The company says AI will enable a new chapter in digital storytelling.
Conclusion
Google’s Flow is now active in the United States and offers advanced AI filmmaking features. With support from Veo 3, Imagen 4 and Gemini, Flow provides tools to create, edit and manage cinematic video content using AI.
