Google's Veo video AI has made significant improvements with its 2026 update, version 3.1. The new feature, called Ingredients to Video, allows users to input up to three reference images to guide the AI in generating videos. This enhancement aims to reduce random alterations in the output, making it more aligned with the provided images. Users can animate characters, set backgrounds, and define textures more accurately, leading to more consistent video results. Another key advancement is the support for vertical video formats. The update allows users to specify a 9:16 aspect ratio, catering to platforms that prioritize mobile content, such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts. This change builds on last year's addition of vertical video capabilities via text prompts. With these updates, Google is clearly focusing on enhancing mobile-first video content, making it easier for creators to produce high-quality, platform-optimized videos.