New Descript: New AI Voices, Ken Burns effect, and Text Background improvements

Introduction

Version 98 of Descript has arrived, bringing a host of updates that many users have been eagerly anticipating. Let’s dive into the key features and improvements introduced in this new version.

Ken Burns Animation Effect

One exciting addition is the Ken Burns animation effect. Previously, users would have to manually implement this effect, but now it can be easily applied with just a few clicks.

To use it, simply select a layer – whether it’s an image or a video – and click on "Plus animation" to find the new Ken Burns option. This feature allows you to choose a direction for the movement—up into the left, up into the middle, up into the right, etc. You can also decide whether the effect will zoom in, zoom out, or maintain a static size. Furthermore, adjusting the speed of the zoom is also possible. With a new preview button, you can see how your Ken Burns effect will look on the clip before applying it.

New Stock Speakers from Open AI

Descript now offers 16 new voices from Open AI, building on the previous addition of six new voices, totaling 22. The earlier voices have been categorized as Legacy voices but are still accessible by clicking on the show button under the dropdown menu.

These new voices are designed to allow for a more natural tone, improved intonation, and better script reading capabilities. For users, this means a more authentic AI voice experience.

Edit for Clarity with AI Speech

Another significant enhancement is the integration of AI voices with the Edit for Clarity tool. Users can now apply the edit for clarity functions to AI-generated voices directly from their scripts. This feature is especially useful in instances where a re-recording is not possible.

Text Background Improvements

Descript has introduced improvements regarding text backgrounds. Users can now add corner rounding to their text element backgrounds. While this feature doesn't fully meet all requests for caption roundness, it’s a step in the right direction.

Additionally, users can control how tightly background wraps around multi-line text using hug lines, while the background boundary will now automatically adjust to the longest line in the text span.

Editor Upgrades

This version offers some editor enhancements as well. When deleting a scene boundary, layers anchored to that scene will also be deleted, making scene management considerably more straightforward. Layers that aren't anchored will still remain intact.

Timeline Exports on the Web

Previously limited to the desktop version only, timeline exports are now available on the web. This functionality allows users to export projects to Premiere, Pro Tools, and other platforms.

Super Toast Notifications

Descript has also introduced the super toast notifications to the desktop app from its web version. These notifications appear in the bottom right corner, keeping users updated on progress, such as rendering or new updates. These notifications are slowly rolling out, so you may see them by the end of the week.

Bug Fixes

In addition to major updates, the usual bug fixes have been included to enhance overall functionality and user experience.

Overall, this update introduces significant new features that improve usability, streamline processes, and fulfill long-standing user requests.

Keywords

Ken Burns effect, AI voices, edit for clarity, text backgrounds, corner rounding, timeline exports, super toast notifications

FAQ

Q1: What is the Ken Burns effect in Descript?
A1: The Ken Burns effect is a new animation feature that allows users to create a zoom-in and pan effect on images and videos easily.

Q2: How many new AI voices have been added in version 98?
A2: Version 98 introduces a total of 16 new AI voices, bringing the total to 22 voices.

Q3: Can I use the Edit for Clarity tool with AI voices?
A3: Yes, the Edit for Clarity tool can now be used directly with AI-generated voices from your scripts.

Q4: What improvements have been made to text backgrounds?
A4: Users can now apply corner rounding to text backgrounds and adjust how tightly the background wraps around text with hug lines.

Q5: Are timeline exports available on the web now?
A5: Yes, timeline exports are now available on the web, previously they were only accessible via the desktop version.

Q6: What are super toast notifications?
A6: Super toast notifications are updates that appear in the bottom right corner of the screen, informing users about progress and updates within the application.