Google Photos is preparing to make its image-to-video feature significantly more advanced with the help of artificial intelligence. According to a report from Android Authority, the latest app version contains hidden code revealing that a text prompt option will soon be added. This will allow users to describe what they want to see, and the AI will automatically animate still photos accordingly.
Currently, the feature offers two preset options: ‘subtle movement’ and ‘I’m feeling lucky’. These choices give the AI limited control to add motion effects to photos, but users cannot customise results beyond that. The upcoming text prompt box could change this, allowing far greater creativity and control over the final video clip.
The system is powered by Google’s Veo 2 model, which, while not the latest version, still produces impressive results. Veo 3 is already being used for more advanced video generation, but Veo 2 remains powerful enough for everyday use in consumer apps like Google Photos. All users need is a single starting image, and the AI can generate dynamic motion effects that simulate realistic camera pans or subject movement.
This new tool reflects Google’s broader push to infuse artificial intelligence across its ecosystem. The company has been steadily integrating its Gemini and Veo models into products ranging from Gmail and Docs to Android and YouTube. The Photos app is the latest in line to receive a dose of generative AI, following the rollout of features such as Magic Editor and AI-powered search.
Beyond software, Google’s AI strategy now extends into hardware. The company recently introduced new Nest devices and an upcoming smart speaker, both featuring Gemini integration. This cohesive ecosystem approach gives Google an edge against rivals like OpenAI, which has focused mainly on standalone products such as ChatGPT and its experimental Sora 2 video tool.
While Google has not confirmed when or if this hidden feature will roll out to users, it seems like a logical next step for the Photos app. AI-driven animation from still images could become a popular creative outlet for users looking to make short clips for social media or personal projects. For now, it remains in testing, but given Google’s history of quickly expanding AI features across its services, the rollout may not be far away.
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