Lightricks, the company behind popular apps like Facetune and Videoleap, has unveiled a new AI-driven filmmaking tool called LTX Studio, according to TechCrunch. The web-based tool guides creators from ideation to generating an AI-powered short clip, allowing them to visualize a storyline. Currently, LTX Studio is in the waitlist phase, with plans to release it to the public next month at no cost.
Users can input their ideas, and LTX Studio will automatically generate a script, storyboard, and characters based on the provided prompts. The storyboard breaks down scenes into shots, each customizable in terms of style (anime or cinematic), weather, location, camera angles, motion scale, special effects, and character dialogs. The shot editor allows users to modify shot settings such as frame, motion scale, camera motion, duration, and sound.
The tool includes a separate characters tab for adding, removing, or modifying characters, maintaining consistency throughout the story. Users can even import images with visible faces to create characters. Once the storyline and shot editing are complete, users can preview the film and export the file for sharing and feedback.
Lightricks envisions LTX Studio as beneficial for professionals like filmmakers, pre-production teams, and ad agencies. CEO Zeev Farbman highlighted its utility for swiftly creating conceptual stories and allowing filmmakers to evaluate various scene-shooting options without significant financial investment.
The development of LTX Studio arose from Lightricks recognizing the potential of AI in 2022 and the need for next-gen products. While incorporating AI models, including their text-to-video model, the company also utilizes third-party providers for background music, considering AI’s current limitations in music quality.
A survey by Lightricks in the previous year indicated that 62% of users were already using generative AI-based products, prompting the company to focus on AI-powered features, aligning with other creative product companies like Adobe and Canva.
Although historically consumer-focused, Lightricks is diversifying its offerings, discontinuing certain products and acquiring Popular Pays, a platform connecting brands with creators. The launch of LTX Studio reflects Lightricks’ move toward catering to professionals. Despite a 12% staff reduction in 2022, the company, with a current workforce of 550, has no plans for further layoffs. Lightricks, having raised $130 million in a Series D in 2021, is now positioning itself as an AI-focused company for both consumers and professionals. CEO Farbman indicated future plans may include additional funding or a public offering based on the success of AI-driven tools for both segments.