Pika 2.0 launches to let you upload your characters to AI videos

SpadesThe Palo Alto-based startup, which was one of the early leaders in creating realistic AI video generation tools, has unveiled its latest AI video generator model, the Pika 2.0, in what it calls a significant update , which promises much more user control and customization for the generated videos.

The announcement comes just weeks after successfully running Pika 1.5which saw widespread adoption and user engagement, positioning the company as a leader in the creative AI space, and days beyond OpenAI has finally released its own AI generator, Sora — originally shown 10 months ago — to the masses.

Pika 2.0 boasts improved text alignment, making it easier than ever to translate detailed prompts into cohesive and imaginative video clips.

It improves motion rendering, delivering naturalistic motion and believable fantasy physics – areas where previous generative AI tools have struggled.

The launch of Pika 2.0 highlights Pika’s commitment to making AI video creation affordable, accessible and user-friendly.

With its focus on individuals and small creators rather than professional studios, Pika sets itself apart from competitors like OpenAI, which recently debuted its Hollywood-focused Sora model.

Pika 2.0 builds on the success of its predecessor, introducing several notable features designed to empower users to create more dynamic and engaging videos.

Central to the update is the new Scene Components feature, which allows users to upload and customize individual elements such as characters, objects and settings.

Advanced image recognition technology ensures these components are seamlessly integrated into scenes, giving creators much more granular control over their content.

These updates aim to make the platform more flexible for users who want to create playful, shareable videos for social media, as well as brands who want to produce high-quality advertising content without the costs and complexity of traditional production.

11 million users and growing

Pika’s appeal has already translated into impressive growth. Over five million users joined the platform within a month of the release of Pika 1.5, bringing the total user base to over 11 million.

Viral features such as ‘Squish It’, ‘Melt It’ and ‘Explode It’ have led to this surge, with videos generated on the platform amassing more than two billion views.

Major brands including Balenciaga, Fenty and Vogue have taken advantage of Pika’s tools to create creative social ads, further increasing the visibility of the platform.

As Pika 2.0 rolls out, the company expects even greater adoption from influencers, advertisers and ordinary users.

Innovation on an affordable budget

Pika 2.0 is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to other AI video solutions. Although specific pricing details have not been disclosed, the platform emphasizes accessibility for laypeople. This accessibility, combined with powerful new features, is expected to drive more users to explore their creativity through AI-generated content.

With Pika’s rapid growth and continued innovation, the company is poised to play a key role in the wider adoption of AI video technologies. The platform’s consumer-first approach contrasts with the “professional” focus of rival filmmakers, potentially giving it an edge in attracting a diverse and broad audience.

Founder and CEO Demi Guo is positioning Pika as a tool not only for creating videos, but also for encouraging creativity and storytelling in ways that are fun and engaging. As more brands and people turn to AI to create content, platforms like Pika can pave the way for a new era of accessible and dynamic media.