Adobe Firefly uses AI to create a rough cut

Adobe has expanded Adobe Firefly with a new AI-powered video editing feature. A beta version called "Quick Cut" is now available, which automatically transforms uploaded or Firefly-created raw footage into a structured first cut. The goal is to significantly speed up the editing process and provide a clear starting point for further creative work. The feature is aimed at creators who want to optimize their workflow and spend less time piecing together individual clips.

The first rough cut is often the most time-consuming part of video production. Footage needs to be reviewed, sorted, and logically arranged. This is precisely where Adobe Firefly's Quick Cut comes in. The AI analyzes the content and creates a first cut based on just a few details.

The goal isn't a finished product, but rather a structured foundation. Adobe describes Quick Cut as a fast way from "I have clips" to "I have an edit I can work with." The focus is meant to be more on story, strategy, and narrative, rather than on the technical assembly of footage.

Quick Cut in Adobe Firefly: How the new feature works

The feature is now available as a beta version. After uploading raw footage to Adobe Firefly, a new button labeled "Quick Cut" will appear. Before starting, you will be asked for some information:

Type of content, for example
long interview
Product demo
Podcast recording
Vlog about a day in the life
desired aspect ratio
desired speed of the video
Optional B-roll track that can be uploaded or created directly to organize supporting material.

Based on this information, the AI performs an initial analysis. The result is displayed as a multi-track timeline.

Multi-track editing directly in Firefly

The result generated by Quick Cut is immediately visible in Adobe Firefly. It's a multi-track edit that can be directly further processed. Adjustments, optimizations, and re-editing are possible within the platform.

This function is explicitly designed as a starting point. It's intended to provide a clear foundation that can then be individually refined. The idea behind it: less time spent manually piecing clips together, more time for content-related decisions.

Specific use cases according to Adobe

Adobe cites several use cases where Quick Cut can be particularly helpful. Product reviewers can upload lengthy unboxing and testing videos. The AI follows the narrative flow and structures the footage accordingly.

Reporters can have interviews analyzed. Quick Cut identifies key moments and arranges them in a first edit. The function is also suitable for longer formats such as podcasts or vlogs, as it automatically pre-structures extensive raw footage.

Note regarding Firefly Pro and Premium

In connection with the beta release, Adobe is highlighting a limited-time offer. New sign-ups for Firefly Pro and Premium before March 16th include unlimited image and Firefly video generation with a resolution of up to 2K in the Adobe Firefly app.

Third-party models are also supported, including Google's Nano Banana Pro and Runways Gen-4 Image. This integration further expands the creative possibilities within the platform.

Quick Cut changes the workflow in video editing

With Quick Cut, Adobe takes another step towards automated production processes. Instead of starting from scratch, a first structured version is available after just a few inputs. This noticeably changes the workflow:

less manual sorting of clips
faster creation of a first cut version
direct transition to detailed content work

Adobe is thus increasingly positioning Adobe Firefly as a central platform for AI-powered image and video production.

Adobe Firefly speeds up the process of getting started with video editing

With the Quick Cut beta feature, Adobe Firefly significantly expands its capabilities in the field of AI-powered video editing. The automatic creation of a structured first cut is designed to relieve creators of some of their workload and accelerate the editing process.

All process parameters such as format, speed, and B-roll can be defined. The result remains fully editable and can be further developed as desired. Adobe Firefly is thus evolving into a tool that not only generates but also makes specific production steps more efficient. (Image: Shutterstock / Mehaniq)