Google launches affordable AI video generator Veo 3.1 Lite

Google introduces Veo 3.1 Lite, an affordable AI video generator.

Google announced a new AI model for video generation that significantly reduces costs compared to previous solutions.

Veo 3.1 Lite now available to developers via Gemini API and Google AI Studio. The cost of use is 2-3 times lower than the Veo 3.1 Fast version.

This model supports the creation of videos based on text and images in both horizontal and vertical formats. Users can choose resolution from 720p or 1080p and video length from 4, 6, or 8 seconds.

For comparison, generating a second piece of content with sound in basic Veo 3.1 costs about $0.4. The Fast version costs $0.15 per second, while the Lite price when using 720p resolution is $0.05.

An 8-second video is created in less than a minute.

Notably, Google released this new solution shortly after OpenAI ended its Sora project to reduce video generation costs. No official reason has been given, but experts say the decision is due to the high cost of maintaining the service.

Meanwhile, Logan Kilpatrick, head of product at Google AI Studio, said in a Veo 3.1 Lite presentation:

“Video is here to stay.”

Sora’s Closing Spurs Competition

A week after Sora’s closure, alternative AI generators like Kling AI and Runway showed a steady increase in their user base.

Weekly active users of China’s Kuaishou Technology’s Kling AI increased by 4% to reach 2.6 million. Even before OpenAI’s announcement, the project was already leading in monthly viewership, with 7.8 million viewers in March compared to Sora’s 4.7 million viewers.

Competing platforms Runway and Vidu also posted 1% weekly user growth.

Sora was released as a standalone application in fall 2025. Initially, it created a lot of buzz due to its user-friendly interface and social features. But its popularity didn’t last long, with the number of monthly active users steadily declining since the beginning of the year.

The exit of major players opens up new economic opportunities for Kling AI. A week after OpenAI’s announcement, the Chinese company told analysts it expected annual revenue to more than double.

Back in February, Kuaishou announced the third version of its Kling AI video generator.

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