Introduction: AI’s Next Big Leap in Video Creation
Artificial intelligence is no longer just powering text and images—it’s now redefining video. Captions, the popular AI video editing app used by creators, has officially rebranded as Mirage. Backed by over $100 million in venture capital and valued at $500 million, Mirage aims to push beyond creator tools and establish itself as a cutting-edge AI research lab focused on short-form video content for platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
The rebrand signals more than just a name change—it’s a move to position Mirage as a serious competitor in the AI video space, taking on startups like D-ID, Synthesia, and Hour One with new, research-driven innovation.
Why Captions Became Mirage
According to CEO Gaurav Misra, the company believes “the real race for AI video hasn’t even begun.” By adopting the Mirage identity, the company wants to unify its offerings and present itself as an AI-first research powerhouse.
Key Highlights of the Rebrand:
- Captions App (original video creation and editing tool for creators).
- Mirage Studio (AI-driven platform for brands and ad production).
- Focus on AI Research (developing multimodal foundational models for short-form video).
This strategic move allows Mirage to combine consumer-facing creativity with enterprise solutions, bridging the gap between individual creators and large brands.
What Makes Mirage Studio Different?
Launched in June 2025, Mirage Studio targets brands and advertisers seeking cost-effective, high-quality video production. Instead of hiring actors, studios, or large crews, companies can simply upload an audio file, and Mirage generates a fully animated video complete with AI avatars and backgrounds.
Standout Features:
- AI avatars with natural speech & expressions (not robotic lip-syncing).
- Custom avatars from selfies for personalized branding.
- No reliance on stock footage or voice cloning.
- Affordable business plan at $399/month, with 8,000 credits included.
- 50% discount for first-time users.
This makes Mirage an attractive option for startups, small businesses, and even established brands that want to streamline ad production without compromising on quality.
The Bigger Picture: AI Video vs. Human Creativity
While the technology is exciting, it raises questions about the future of creative work. AI-generated ads and avatars can reduce costs for brands but may also impact jobs for models, actors, and video editors.
For example, a recent Guess ad in Vogue used an AI-generated model, sparking debate over the ethics of replacing human talent. Additionally, as AI video becomes more realistic, it blurs the line between authentic content and deepfakes, amplifying concerns around misinformation.
Mirage’s Stance on Deepfakes & Responsibility
Mirage has publicly acknowledged the risks tied to deepfake technology. In a recent blog post, the company outlined its moderation policies to prevent misuse, including:
- Prohibiting impersonation without consent.
- Requiring likeness approvals for avatar creation.
- Implementing safeguards against misinformation.
However, the company also stresses that no system is foolproof. The solution lies in building a culture of media literacy, where audiences critically evaluate digital content just as they do with news headlines.
Why Mirage Matters in the AI Video Race
The rebranding of Captions to Mirage isn’t just a cosmetic shift—it’s a strategic bet on the future of video. With short-form video dominating social media and digital advertising, Mirage is positioning itself as a category leader in AI-generated video content.
For brands, creators, and even everyday users, Mirage could become the default AI video tool, much like Canva did for design and ChatGPT for text.
Final Thoughts
Mirage’s transition from a creator app (Captions) to a full-fledged AI research lab signals a major evolution in the way we think about video production. While concerns about jobs and misinformation remain, the potential of AI video to democratize content creation and reduce costs for businesses is undeniable.
The real question isn’t whether AI will transform video—it’s who will lead the revolution. Mirage is making a strong case that it wants to be that leader.
FAQs About Mirage AI Video
1. What is Mirage (formerly Captions)?
Mirage is an AI-powered video platform that evolved from the Captions app, focusing on short-form video generation and multimodal AI research.
2. How is Mirage different from competitors like Synthesia?
Unlike many AI video platforms, Mirage claims its avatars deliver more natural expressions, gestures, and speech without relying on stock footage or lip-syncing.
3. Can Mirage replace human actors in ads?
Yes, to some extent. Mirage Studio allows brands to generate ad videos with AI avatars, reducing reliance on human talent. However, creative direction still requires human input.
4. Is Mirage Studio affordable for small businesses?
Yes. At $399/month with 8,000 credits, it’s cheaper than traditional video production, especially when compared to hiring actors, videographers, and editors.
5. What risks come with AI video generation?
The biggest risks are deepfakes, misinformation, and creative workforce displacement. Mirage has introduced safeguards, but challenges remain.
