TikTok has introduced AI Alive, a new feature that lets users animate still photos directly within the TikTok Stories tool. The feature is only available through the app’s Story Camera.
AI Alive uses AI-enhanced editing tools to help creators turn static images into short videos with movement and atmospheric effects. The idea is to let anyone, even without editing experience, bring their photos to life with just a few taps.
“As TikTok’s first AI-driven image-to-video creation feature, AI Alive places creativity control directly in your hands,” the company said in a media release. “Imagine capturing a serene sunset photo and effortlessly turning it into a cinematic clip: the sky gradually shifts hues, clouds drift lazily, and ambient sounds of waves crashing in the distance bring the scene to life.”
How to use AI Alive
To use AI Alive, open Story Camera by tapping the blue “+” on the Inbox or Profile page. Pick a single photo from your Story Album. Then, select the AI Alive icon on the right side of the photo editing screen.
Once posted, the animated stories appear in the For You and Following feeds, as well as on the creator’s profile.
Safety features
TikTok noted that AI Alive goes through several trust and safety steps. Before publishing, the platform checks the uploaded photo, the text prompt, and the final AI-generated video to make sure it meets community rules.
Content made with AI Alive will carry a label and include metadata that marks it as AI-generated. This information remains even when the video is downloaded or shared outside the app. Users can also report any content they believe violates TikTok’s policies.
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