Voia unveils AI-powered VFX platform to democratize professional filmmaking

AI startup Voia has emerged from stealth mode with a new visual effects platform that aims to democratize high-end filmmaking through AI-powered automation. Founded in 2022 by tech veterans and bolstered by Hollywood expertise, the company has developed a comprehensive VFX pipeline that makes professional-quality visual effects more accessible to creators at various budget levels while still serving high-end filmmakers with advanced creative tools.

The big picture: Voia is building an AI-enhanced VFX platform designed to make professional-quality visual effects more accessible while giving high-end filmmakers greater creative freedom.

• “We have built this for artists, by artists,” says CEO Avner Braverman, highlighting the company’s focus on serving creative professionals.
• The Sunnyvale-based startup has raised approximately $10 million from founders and strategic investors including Keshet International and WPP.

Key players: Voia combines Silicon Valley tech expertise with Hollywood production knowledge through its leadership team.

• The company was founded in 2022 by tech veterans Avner Braverman, Haim Helman, and Noam Malali.
• The leadership team includes Scot Barbour, former vice president of production technology at Sony Pictures Entertainment, serving as VP of creative, and Mitch Singer, former chief strategy officer at Sony Pictures, as an advisor.

How it works: Voia’s AI models support two distinct workflow options to accommodate different user needs and technical capabilities.

• A basic “point and shoot” pipeline makes VFX creation accessible for simpler content like TikTok videos.
• A professional pipeline integrates with industry-standard tools like Unreal Engine, Nuke, and other VFX software, delivering discrete layers including camera tracking, foreground, background, and depth maps.

What’s next: Voia is expanding its platform capabilities beyond its initial iPhone focus.

• A new version supporting professional cameras from manufacturers like ARRI and Red is scheduled for release next month.
• The technology is already being used by early customers including Green Productions, Pace Pictures, and BBDO, with users ranging from “mid-sized production companies and ad agencies all the way up to A-list filmmakers in Hollywood.”