Midjourney, a well-known name in AI-powered image generation, has officially launched its first video generation model, called V1. This new tool allows users to create short videos from images, marking the company’s entry into the fast-growing world of AI-generated video content.
The V1 model works by taking an image either user-uploaded or generated using one of Midjourney’s earlier AI tools and converting it into four short video clips, each lasting about five seconds. Users can access this feature exclusively through Discord, where all of Midjourney’s tools are currently available. For now, it can only be used via a web browser.
Competing in a Crowded Space
With the release of V1, Midjourney enters a competitive landscape, joining the ranks of companies already offering advanced AI video solutions. While many of these tools target commercial use like ad creation or cinematic scenes; Midjourney has carved out a niche in the creative and artistic domain, appealing to designers, storytellers, and hobbyists.
More Than Just Video Creation
According to Midjourney’s founder, the company envisions a broader future beyond short videos. The ultimate goal is to develop real-time, open-world simulation tools that could be used in immersive environments. Following this launch, the team aims to work on 3D generation and more advanced real-time models.
Pricing and Subscription Plans
Creating videos through V1 is significantly more resource-intensive than generating still images. Midjourney has announced that each video generation will cost roughly eight times more than a regular image generation.
- The Basic Plan (₹850/month approx.) allows limited access to V1.
- The Pro Plan (₹5,000/month approx.) and Mega Plan (₹10,000/month approx.) offer unlimited video generations in “Relax” mode, where rendering times are longer.
- Pricing for video generations may be adjusted based on user feedback over the next month.
Customization Features
Users can personalize video output in multiple ways:
- Automatic Animation: Lets the system animate the image in a random style.
- Manual Animation: Users can type in descriptions of how they want the video to move.
- Motion Settings: Options for “low” or “high” movement levels for both camera and subject.
- Video Length: While each clip starts at 5 seconds, users can extend videos up to 21 seconds in total through repeat extensions.
Controversy and Legal Challenges
Midjourney’s V1 launch comes just days after the company was sued by two major entertainment studios for allegedly using copyrighted characters in its AI-generated images. This reflects a larger debate around AI-generated media and the use of copyrighted data in training models.
The concern from creative professionals and media companies is that such technologies may eventually replace traditional roles or dilute the value of original creative work.
First Impressions
Initial feedback for V1 has been encouraging. The videos carry the signature surreal and imaginative style that Midjourney’s users love, though they are not yet as photorealistic as some competitors’. As the AI model evolves, it remains to be seen how it will stack up against more established platforms in this space.
