“Could Google’s Veo 3 be the start of playable world models?”

Could Google’s Veo 3 Mark the Beginning of Interactive World Models?

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, distinctions between various types of models are becoming increasingly significant. Notably, the difference between world models and video-generation models is shaping the future of AI-driven interactions.

World models are sophisticated AI systems designed to simulate environmental dynamics. Unlike video-generation models that focus solely on creating realistic visual sequences, world models aim to mimic the underlying physics and behaviors of real-world environments. This capability allows agents—AI systems or robots—to predict how actions might influence future states of their surroundings, paving the way for more interactive and responsive AI applications.

Recent developments from tech giants like Google suggest that the company is making strides toward integrating these complex capabilities into their foundation models. Google’s latest multimodal model, Gemini 2.5 Pro, is reportedly being adapted to function as a comprehensive world model. This transformation hints at a future where AI can not only generate convincing visual content but also understand and simulate the intricate dynamics of real-world environments.

Earlier this year, DeepMind introduced Genie 2, a model capable of creating an ‘endless’ array of interactive worlds reminiscent of video game environments. This innovation demonstrated the potential for AI to design immersive, playable virtual spaces, representing a significant leap forward in virtual world simulation.

Following these advancements, recent reports reveal that Google has established a dedicated team focused on developing AI models capable of withstanding the complexities of physical-world simulation. These efforts point toward a future where interactive, playable world models may become a reality, transforming how we approach gaming, robotics, and virtual interactions.

As Google continues to push the boundaries of what AI can achieve, the emergence of truly interactive world models could herald a new era of immersive digital experiences. Whether this transition marks the beginning of a new paradigm in AI-driven simulations remains to be seen, but the trajectory certainly suggests significant breakthroughs on the horizon.