Amazon Nova Reel 1.1 Expands Video Generation Capabilities
Created on April 8|Last edited on April 8
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Amazon has announced an update to its generative AI video model, Nova Reel, with the release of version 1.1. The update, revealed on April 7, 2025, extends the model's capabilities beyond the six-second single-shot clips supported in version 1.0. With Nova Reel 1.1, users can now create multi-shot videos up to two minutes in length, maintaining visual and stylistic consistency throughout. This new version is accessible through Amazon Bedrock and integrates with AWS SDK, the AWS CLI, and the Bedrock console for interactive use.
Multi-Shot Generation and New Control Options
Nova Reel 1.1 introduces two distinct modes for video creation: Multishot Automated and Multishot Manual. In the automated mode, users provide a single prompt (up to 4,000 characters), and the model generates a coherent sequence of 6-second shots stitched into a full-length video. This mode is geared toward users seeking efficiency and simplicity, as it requires no manual shot design or input images.
The manual mode, however, offers granular control over each shot. Users can define individual prompts and optionally attach images for each scene. This is ideal for use cases resembling traditional storyboarding, where creative direction and visual composition are important. The manual workflow supports up to 20 distinct shots per video, with each prompt capped at 512 characters. Reference images must be in 1280x720 resolution and can be uploaded directly or sourced from Amazon S3.
Performance, Quality, and Latency Improvements
According to Amazon, Nova Reel 1.1 delivers enhancements in output quality and latency compared to its predecessor. These improvements stem from optimizations in both the model architecture and the underlying video generation pipeline. Whether used for product marketing, storytelling, or ambient visuals, the model aims to reduce the time and cost traditionally associated with video production.
Example Use Cases and Creative Prompts
The announcement includes several creative examples showcasing Nova Reel’s versatility. One example titled "Color Burst" presents a progression of colored powder explosions, while another prompt, "Shape Shifting," narrates a symbolic transformation of geometric forms in a minimalist style. These examples underline the model’s adaptability to both abstract and narrative-driven content, making it useful for designers, marketers, and creatives.
For instance, a prompt describing Norwegian fjords, sequoia forests, and glowworm caves can be rendered into a seamless two-minute video with nature-themed shots, all generated by a single command using Python via AWS’s Bedrock API. Alternatively, a storyboarded glacier collapse sequence can be crafted using manual mode, with each shot customized through accompanying reference images.
Integration with AWS and Developer Tools
Developers can get started with Nova Reel 1.1 through the Amazon Bedrock console by requesting model access. Once approved, the model becomes available for both version 1.0 and 1.1 usage. Video generation can be performed using the console’s Image/Video playground, or programmatically through Python using the Boto3 SDK. Generated videos are delivered to a specified Amazon S3 bucket, and job status can be monitored asynchronously.
The blog also provides example Python scripts for both automated and manual modes, demonstrating how to invoke the model, manage image inputs (including base64 encoding), and retrieve the final video file using AWS CLI.
Pricing, Availability, and Considerations
Amazon Nova Reel 1.1 is available in the US East (N. Virginia) region via Amazon Bedrock. Pricing follows a usage-based model in line with other Bedrock services. Users are advised to plan their shots in advance when using manual mode, as the system imposes specific constraints on prompt length, image resolution, and shot count.
The tool is currently intended for creative professionals, content teams, and developers aiming to streamline video production using generative AI. Common applications include ad campaigns, explainer videos, social media content, and ambient visuals.
Creative Community and Future Exploration
Amazon encourages creators to explore further by visiting the Nova Reel model cookbook repository and viewing prompt galleries, which include final videos and their generating prompts. The company also invites developers to join the AWS builder community to share projects and ideas.
With Nova Reel 1.1, Amazon aims to position itself in the competitive generative video landscape alongside other AI-first content tools, offering flexibility, scalability, and integration with the broader AWS ecosystem.
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