TikTok brings movement into the picture: check out the new AI Alive feature

TikTok surprises once again with a new creative tool: "AI Alive" is the name of the latest function - and it does exactly what the name promises. A normal photo is turned into a moving short video. It's made possible by artificial intelligence. But what can the feature really do?

AI Alive: Photo becomes story clip

With the new AI Alive tool you can directly in the TikTok Story camera select a static image - and an animated video is automatically created from it. The AI adds movements, visual effects and atmosphere and transforms your photo into a dynamic clip.

🎬 This is how it works:
- Go to the story camera (blue "+" in the inbox or in the profile)
- Select a single image from your story album
- AI Alive turns it into a video - without any editing skills
- Your clip appears in the "For you" feed, in the "Follow" feed and on your profile

AI storytelling at the touch of a button

TikTok describes the feature as a new form of visual storytelling. A simple snapshot becomes a short, emotional clip - perfect for stories with a wow effect.

💡 Target: Creative, visually appealing stories - without much effort.

But: AI is not (yet) perfect

As with many AI tools, the results can vary greatly. Some animations look astonishingly realistic - others quickly mutate into bizarre visualizations in which faces become distorted or arms suddenly appear double.

⚠️ Our tip: Before posting, check that your animated self doesn't turn into an AI horror movie.

Ahead of the competition? Instagram follows suit

Exciting: Instagram is also working on a similar feature for its new video editing app "Edits" - a CapCut clone with a focus on creative reels. With AI Alive, TikTok could therefore make a deliberate move to secure its innovative edge.

Conclusion: TikTok brings photos to life - with AI and creativity

With AI Alive, TikTok is taking the next step towards creative content tools. If you like visual storytelling, you have a powerful tool at your fingertips - perfect for short, eye-catching clips in story format.

📌 For creators, brands & marketers, this means: Now is the perfect time to experiment with AI Alive and rethink stories.