Recently, Pika launched version 1.5, featuring AI-driven capabilities that convert text and images into videos. This update also introduces a suite of physics-defying effects for its web platform, including explosions, squeezing, melting, shattering, expanding, and "cakeification." Users can effortlessly apply these effects to their photos, transforming them into surreal and engaging videos with just a few simple steps.
Subsequently, brands on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, especially those in the cosmetics, skincare, and health sectors, began utilizing these effects, particularly the "squeeze" effect, to promote their services. This even sparked a trend among creators experimenting with the "Squish It" effect, which Pika has branded its AI effects as "Pikaffect."
Two weeks later, Pika added four more Pikaffect effects. The company now plans to release three new Pikaffect features before Halloween: Hovering, Eyeball Pop-Out, and Decapitation—each offering functionalities as their names suggest.
Matan Cohen-Grumi, Pika's Creative Director, stated that they are striving to make AI both engaging and user-friendly, targeting not just creators but everyone—from children to grandparents.
To utilize these new and existing Pikaffect features, users simply need to visit the Pika.art website and log in using a Google, Discord, Facebook/Meta account, or email address. Once logged in, they can navigate to the bottom menu to add a new image. Users have the option to capture a new photo or upload an existing one from their device or cloud photo library. After selecting an image, clicking the Pikaffect button marked with a magic wand icon will display all 13 preset Pikaffect options. Finally, clicking the star icon generates a video based on the selected effects.
Cohen-Grumi noted that Pika's effects can generate new videos from static images in just seconds. However, during limited testing conducted by VentureBeat, high website traffic prevented some images from being processed under the free tier. The free plan offers 150 credits per month, sufficient for producing 10 videos (each video consumes 15 credits). Additionally, Pika offers Standard, Professional, and Unlimited plans priced at $10, $35, and $95 per month, respectively, with credit allowances increasing accordingly (a 20% discount is available for annual subscriptions).
Regarding the timeout issues encountered during testing, Cohen-Grumi pointed out that Pika's recent success introduced significant load challenges. He stated, "The traffic was exceptionally high, far beyond our initial expectations at launch, but the issues were swiftly addressed." He also emphasized that Pika 1.5 "can deliver extremely realistic and naturally smooth effects."
As for Pika's future plans, including whether more Pikaffect effects will be released for each major holiday or season, Cohen-Grumi remained tight-lipped. He stated, "We are continually developing new content to ensure that every release is both fun and easy to use."
