Remember Stability AI? The folks behind Stable Diffusion, who almost weren’t? They’re back. This time, they’re promising to breathe life into your flat, boring photos with their new AI model, Stable Virtual Camera. Apparently, it can transform 2D images into “immersive” videos with, and I quote, “realistic depth and perspective.”
Think of it as a virtual cinematographer in a box, or rather, a downloadable file on Hugging Face. Stable Virtual Camera lets you generate ‘novel views’ from a handful of input images (up to 32, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious). You can then choreograph virtual camera movements – spirals, dolly zooms, the works. All the while, hoping your images become something other than a glitchy mess.
Stability AI readily admits the model has its quirks. Humans, animals, and anything resembling water are apparently its kryptonite. Expect ‘flickering artifacts,’ especially if you demand too much from your humble JPEG. Ambiguous scenes and irregularly shaped objects? Forget about it. It’s like asking your toaster to perform open-heart surgery. Possible? Technically. Recommended? Absolutely not.
This research preview, available under a noncommercial license, begs the question: Is this a genuine technological leap, or a desperate attempt to distract from the elephant in the room? Namely, Stability AI’s near-death experience. Let’s recap: Ex-CEO Emad Mostaque allegedly steered the company towards financial ruin, prompting staff exodus, a failed Canva partnership, and widespread investor panic. Good times.
However, like a phoenix (albeit a slightly singed one), Stability AI is attempting a comeback. A new CEO is at the helm. James Cameron of “Titanic” fame, is now on the board. And a flurry of new image-generation models is upon us. They’ve even partnered with Arm to bring AI audio generation to your mobile devices. Because who doesn’t want custom sound effects on the go?
So, is Stable Virtual Camera the model to turn Stability AI’s fortunes around? Only time will tell. But for now, approach with caution. And maybe stick to photographing inanimate objects, at least until the bugs are worked out. Your pets will thank you.
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