Adobe Firefly expands with a new prompt-based video editor
Adobe is broadening the capabilities of its AI-powered creative suite with an updated Firefly platform that now includes a dedicated video editor. The enhancement is designed to streamline video production by letting creators perform precise edits using natural language prompts, in addition to expanding the catalog of third-party generative models available within the tool. This update marks a notable shift for AI video generation, moving from automated content creation toward more controllable, user-driven editing workflows that can fit into professional production pipelines.
What’s new: prompt-based video editing
The core addition is a prompt-driven video editor that interprets user instructions to adjust clips, overlays, color grading, transitions, and timing. Instead of navigating multiple menus and dozens of sliders, editors can describe the desired change in plain language — for example, “tighten the opening sequence by 5 seconds,” or “apply cinematic color grading to the night cityscape.” The system translates these prompts into precise edits, enabling faster iteration cycles and more accessible experimentation for teams with limited post-production resources.
As with any AI-assisted tool, the success of prompt-based editing hinges on balance. Adobe emphasizes that human oversight remains essential, with editors able to review, adjust, and override AI decisions at any stage. The feature is positioned as an accelerator for professional workflows, not a substitute for artistic direction or technical expertise.
Expanded third-party model ecosystem: FLUX.2 and Topaz Astra
Alongside the new editor, Firefly is opening its doors to additional third-party models to enhance image and video generation. Among the new offerings are Black Forest Labs’ FLUX.2 and Topaz Astra, both designed to expand the range of stylistic and technical options available to creators. FLUX.2 brings nuanced generative capabilities grounded in photorealistic rendering and motion-aware generation, while Topaz Astra aims to optimize upscale, stabilization, and clarity for video assets. Integrating these models into Firefly provides a more versatile toolkit for professionals who rely on AI to accelerate concepting and execution across projects.
These additions follow a broader industry trend of platforms weaving in third-party AI engines to broaden capability without sacrificing control. Creative teams can mix and match models to achieve desired aesthetics, test variations rapidly, and maintain a consistent pipeline across projects. Adobe’s strategy suggests a future where AI-assisted media creation is not limited to a single vendor’s ecosystem but can incorporate multiple engines under a unified interface.
Impact on workflows and collaboration
The updated Firefly is designed with collaborative production in mind. In a typical studio setting, teams can assign a prompt-based editor to junior editors or scripters who can translate narrative notes into concrete edits without requiring extensive training in traditional non-linear editing software. Senior editors still steer the process, refining the AI-generated edits, streaming the review cycle, and ensuring brand alignment and compliance with project requirements.
For content producers, the combination of prompt-driven edits and a broadened model library can shorten revision cycles, reduce handoff friction between departments, and enable tighter alignment with fast-moving schedules. It also supports experimentation with different looks, from realism to stylized animation effects, without leaving the Firefly environment.
What this means for creators
Adobe’s push into prompt-based video editing signals a broader commitment to making AI tools that augment human creativity rather than replace it. By combining intuitive prompts with robust post-production controls, Firefly aims to serve both independent creators and large studios seeking scalable AI-assisted workflows. Expect ongoing refinements in the coming months as Adobe continues to gather user feedback, expand the third-party model catalog, and tighten interoperability with other Creative Cloud apps.
Next steps for users
Current Firefly users should look for the update in their Creative Cloud app panel, with guided tutorials and sample prompts to help novices get started while seasoned editors explore advanced features. As always, user education will be key to unlocking the full potential of prompt-based editing and model-powered generation.
