Google’s AI image-to-video generator launches on Honor’s new phones

The Verge - May 12th, 2025
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Chinese phone manufacturer Honor has introduced a new image-to-video AI generator powered by Google's Veo 2 model, becoming available first to buyers of the upcoming Honor 400 and 400 Pro phones. Launching on May 22nd, this feature allows users to create five-second videos from static images directly within the Gallery app on these new devices. However, it does not allow text prompts, leaving users to rely on the AI's interpretation. While it performs well with simple images, such as clear photos of people or pets, it can produce odd results with complex subjects, like rotating a vintage car or creating chaotic sports scenes.

The AI tool will be free for Honor 400 owners for the first two months, with a daily limit of 10 video generations. Honor's UK marketing director, Chris Langley, noted that a subscription from Google might eventually be required, although details remain unspecified. Currently, Google's Veo 2 model, part of its Gemini Advanced subscription, is limited to text input. The image-to-video feature is part of Google Cloud's offerings, which suggests potential monetization paths through output-based charges. This debut positions Honor at the forefront of integrating advanced AI tools in consumer devices, potentially enhancing user experiences and setting a precedent for future tech innovations.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and engaging look at a new AI feature integrated into the upcoming Honor 400 phones, appealing to tech-savvy readers interested in the latest advancements. It effectively describes the tool's functionality and offers relatable anecdotes, enhancing readability. However, the story's accuracy is somewhat limited by a lack of source attribution and reliance on anecdotal evidence. The absence of broader context and critical analysis reduces its balance, impact, and public interest, as it overlooks potential privacy, ethical, and market implications. Greater transparency and exploration of diverse perspectives could enhance the article's credibility and relevance, offering a more comprehensive view of the technology's potential effects on society and industry.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that are largely consistent with the known details about the Honor 400 and 400 Pro phones and Google's Veo 2 AI model. The launch date of May 22nd for these phones aligns with available information, and the integration of Google's AI technology is plausible given Google's ongoing developments in AI. However, the story's claim that this feature is available before it is accessible to Gemini users needs further verification, as the specifics of Google's rollout strategy are not fully detailed in available sources. Additionally, while the story accurately describes the basic functionality of the AI tool, including its ability to generate videos from static images, the examples given of its performance—such as the exaggerated movements of a cat or the unrealistic soccer game—are anecdotal and would benefit from further empirical testing to confirm their accuracy.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the technical aspects and user experience of the new AI feature, with limited exploration of broader implications or alternative perspectives. It does not address potential privacy concerns, the competitive landscape, or user feedback beyond the author's personal experiences. This narrow focus results in a somewhat unbalanced view, as it omits important considerations such as how this feature compares to similar offerings from other manufacturers or the ethical implications of AI-generated content.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its description of the AI tool's functionality and the author's experiences using it. The language is straightforward, and the structure logically follows the introduction of the product, its features, and user experiences. However, the inclusion of specific technical terms without explanation may confuse readers unfamiliar with AI technology, and the anecdotal examples, while engaging, may distract from the core factual content.

5
Source quality

The story lacks explicit attribution to authoritative sources, such as official statements from Honor or Google, which weakens its credibility. While it mentions a quote from Honor's UK marketing director, Chris Langley, the absence of direct links or references to press releases or official announcements limits the ability to verify the claims independently. The reliance on anecdotal evidence from the author's experience further detracts from the source quality.

5
Transparency

The article does not clearly disclose its sources or the methodology behind the evaluations of the AI tool's performance. There is no discussion of potential conflicts of interest, such as whether the author received the Honor phones for review or has any affiliation with the companies involved. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for readers to fully assess the impartiality of the reporting.

Sources

  1. https://www.techradar.com/computing/artificial-intelligence/forget-sora-gemini-with-veo-2-delivers-ai-video-in-a-fraction-of-the-time
  2. https://www.androidpolice.com/interesting-gemini-veo-2-video-samples/
  3. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/industry-news/Google-Veo2-AI-Video-Generation
  4. https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/i-just-tried-googles-newest-ai-video-generation-features-and-im-blown-away
  5. https://theaitrack.com/google-veo-2-cinematic-video-generator/