AI Video App Pika Designed for Gen Z Gains Momentum

PALO ALTO, California — Demi Guo, a 27-year-old entrepreneur, has launched a new AI video app called Pika, aimed primarily at Gen Z users. The app debuted in April 2023, after Guo dropped out of her Ph.D program at Stanford University. Pika raised approximately $135 million in funding, bringing its valuation to $470 million and attracting 16.4 million users across multiple creative applications.

The latest feature, Predictive Video, allows users to create videos by simply uploading a selfie and stating a desire like ‘make me a rock star.’ The AI analyzes the input and generates a complete video with music, dialogue, and visual effects, making the process accessible even for those without technical skills.

Guo explained that Pika differs from other AI tools by focusing on personal expression rather than producing generic content. ‘We believe it is not meaningless content,’ she said. ‘It’s about self-expression; the personality is actually real behind it.’

While Pika enters a competitive market dominated by established companies like OpenAI’s Sora and Meta’s Vibes, it seeks to carve its niche by emphasizing creativity and emotional storytelling. Guo aims to empower users, enabling them to showcase their individuality in a lively, interactive way.

The rise of Pika highlights a growing trend among younger generations who favor platforms that prioritize self-expression through short video content. As AI technology continues to advance, apps like Pika are likely to keep evolving, offering new tools to enhance creativity for a digital-first audience.