🚀 Midjourney Office Hours Highlights: August 13th

Midjourney provided updates on feature releases, ongoing development for upcoming model versions, infrastructure optimization, and project timelines, while indicating some adjustments and delays may occur as priorities are reassessed and resources allocated.

🚀 Release Updates

Several new features and improvements are being rolled out, including the implementation of smaller batch size videos and the availability of HD video mode for all standard subscription users. Mood boards are receiving more prominent placement through a dedicated sidebar for streamlined access. Video thumbnails will now display the end frame instead of the beginning, with plans to introduce middle-frame thumbnails soon to better differentiate looped clips.

🧪 Version 7.1 and 8 Model Development

Development on Version 7.1 is underway, focusing on enhanced prompt interpretation, improved OREF capabilities, and the consideration of a more advanced draft mode. These features are in preliminary testing and evaluation phases and may not be finalized soon. There is potential for select features originally slated for Version 8 to be integrated into Versions 7.1 or 7.2, reflecting an adaptive approach to release planning. Meanwhile, the primary focus has shifted to developing Version 8, described with optimism due to its anticipated significant improvements. Following V8, a new V2 video model is on the roadmap, though details on most long-term initiatives are still confidential.

🧭 Style Explorer Roadmap

The Style Explorer feature is scheduled for release by the end of the month, with the initial version expected to offer substantial functionality. However, there is a possibility of minor delays extending slightly past the month's end as final refinements are completed.

⚙️ Infrastructure and Pricing Adjustments

Midjourney continues to optimize the underlying infrastructure for video features, aiming to support broader use while maintaining performance. As these optimizations progress, pricing adjustments for video capabilities are anticipated in the coming weeks. The timing and specifics of these changes depend on the success of the ongoing infrastructure improvements.

📅 Timeline and Prioritization Notes

An upcoming team off-site may temporarily delay new releases by about a week. Internal discussions are ongoing to reassess and clarify the company's medium-term priorities. While audio feature development is under consideration, it is not currently a top priority relative to other initiatives.

TL;DR

🚀 Release Updates: Key new features include smaller batch videos, HD mode for all, mood boards in a sidebar, and improved video thumbnails, enhancing user experience and accessibility.

🧪 Version 7.1 and 8 Model Development: V7.1 is in active testing for smarter prompts and OREF, with some V8 features possibly backported. V8 development is the major focus, with further video advancements on the horizon.

🧭 Style Explorer Roadmap: The Style Explorer is expected by month-end, though a small delay is possible as the first release nears completion.

⚙️ Infrastructure and Pricing Adjustments: Ongoing video infrastructure improvements may soon lead to pricing changes for video features, contingent upon optimization results.

📅 Timeline and Prioritization Notes: A team off-site may create short delays, and ongoing strategy discussions are influencing the prioritization of new projects; audio features are not prioritized at this time.

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