Not long ago, we witnessed the breakthrough innovation of Runway Gen-2, a unique online tool that transforms text into short 4-second videos based on the information you provide.
Initially, this tool was only available as a closed beta version on the Runway Discord Server. However, starting today, Runway Gen-2 is ready for everyone, and you can experience its greatness directly through the company’s website without needing Discord.
While Runway had previously provided the Gen-1 tool, allowing users to turn existing videos into unique versions (such as turning a person into a Claymation character), Gen-2 takes a remarkable step forward by turning simple text requests like “robot drinking beer” into fascinating video clips.
As highlighted in the previous article about Gen-2, the generated videos do not have sound and typically have limited motion, resembling animated GIFs. To ensure smooth viewing, they have converted all the embedded videos in this article into GIFs, which may slightly affect the colors, but smoothness is still ensured.
Moreover, if you want to personalize even more, you can upload a photo and guide Gen-2 to draw inspiration from that image. You can request Gen-2 to create a video with specific suggestions that you desire.
The process is straightforward: After entering your request (and optionally a photo), you click the Create button, and the tool will notify you of your place in the processing queue. It also displays the completion percentage, allowing you to track the progress.
In my tests, the processing time was always under a minute, similar to when using the beta version of Gen-2. Back then, we usually sent our requests to a Discord bot, with no information on the progress, but after about a minute, the video would be sent back.
Once the video is complete, you can view it directly on the screen and play it, or click the button to download it in MP4 format. Additionally, the video will be stored in the data section of your account for easy access.
To start your creative journey with Runway Gen-2, all you need to do is create a free account on the Runway website and go to the free signup link to use this tool. Note that, unlike the limited number of videos in the beta version of Gen-2, this free account only allows for 60 seconds of video, equivalent to 15 videos of 4 seconds each.
If you use up your free access or want to utilize additional features such as higher resolution or videos without the Runway logo, you can opt for the Standard account, priced at $15 per month or $144 per year if paid annually. This package provides you with 125 seconds of video per month, and you can purchase additional minutes if needed.
By Avram Piltch)