Innovative AI Model Transforms Video Editing

Luma AI, the a16z-backed leader in AI video and 3D modeling technology, has introduced its latest innovation, Ray3 Modify. This groundbreaking model allows creators to modify existing footage by using character reference images that faithfully preserve the original performance. By specifying start and end frames, users can seamlessly generate transitional footage, elevating the creative process.

Preserving Authentic Performance

Ray3 Modify addresses a critical challenge in visual production: maintaining the integrity of human performance amidst digital transformation. According to Luma AI, the model ensures that key elements—such as motion, timing, eye line, and emotional delivery—are retained, enabling creative studios to incorporate human actors within AI-modified scenarios. This capability is essential for studios aiming to produce consistent and high-quality brand or creative content.

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Expanding Creative Possibilities

Beyond preserving performance, Ray3 Modify empowers creators by facilitating detailed character transformations. Users may provide a reference image to transform an actor’s appearance, retaining crucial details like costumes, likeness, and identity across the shoot. Additionally, by offering start and end frames, directors can meticulously control transitions and character behavior, ensuring smooth continuity between scenes.

Strategic Industry Implications and Funding Momentum

In a statement, Amit Jain, co-founder and CEO of Luma AI, emphasized that the development of generative video models has historically been challenged by issues of control. “Generative video models are incredibly expressive but also hard to control. Today, we are excited to introduce Ray3 Modify that blends the real-world with the expressivity of AI while giving full control to creatives,” Jain explained. The model is now available via the company’s Dream Machine platform.

This release follows significant market developments, including Luma AI’s recent funding surge. A fresh $900 million funding round, led by Saudi Arabia’s Humain and witnessed by investors such as a16z, Amplify Partners, and Matrix Partners, underscores the high stakes in the AI-driven visual content arena. Furthermore, Luma AI’s strategic plans include building a 2GW AI cluster in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its commitment to expanding technological capabilities and market reach.

Conclusion

With Ray3 Modify, Luma AI is setting a new benchmark in the integration of AI with video production. By offering unprecedented control over digital transformations without compromising on performance authenticity, the new model positions the company at the forefront of an industry undergoing rapid evolution.

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EU Mercosur Agreement Sparks Political Battle Over Cyprus Agriculture

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 16, 2026

A political battleground emerged in the Parliamentary Agriculture Committee’s latest session, as fierce debates broke out over the controversial trade deal between the European Union and Latin American nations under the Mercosur framework. Lawmakers voiced deep concerns regarding food safety and the prospects for local agriculture, particularly following the high-profile absence of the Minister of Trade.

Minister Absence And Parliamentary Integrity

Committee Chair Giannakis Gabriel expressed strong disapproval over the Minister’s no-show, noting that the extraordinary session was scheduled at midday at the Minister’s own request. “His absence undermines the authority of the parliament,” Mr. Gabriel declared. Given that the Minister is not abroad, it was expected that he would be present to clarify why Cyprus supported an agreement widely criticized as disadvantaging the agricultural sector.

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Trade Deal Under Scrutiny

In his address, A.C.E.L General Secretary Stefanos Stefanos described the pact as a “dangerous agreement” imposed under the pressure of multinational conglomerates. He especially critiqued the contrasting sanitary standards whereby, while the EU bans our farmers from using certain pesticides and antibiotics, the Mercosur deal appears to allow imports produced with these very substances. His remarks underscored the possibility of double standards in safety measures and the potential long-term impacts on Cypriot agriculture.

Economic And Safety Concerns

Legislators questioned the basis of government studies that justified backing the agreement, even as Cyprus’ agricultural sustainability is increasingly threatened by water scarcity and soaring production costs. Representatives from various political factions pointed to insufficient controls over import volumes and tariff structures. For example, Christos Orphanidis (DIKO) demanded precise data on imports from Latin America, citing honey as a case in point, and pressed for clear explanations regarding the tariff regime.

Legal And Health Implications

Questions about legal authority were raised by Elias Myriantounos (EDEK), who inquired whether parliament can reject or amend the agreement should economic studies forecast negative outcomes. Environmental advocates, like Haralambos Theopemptou of the Movement of Ecologists, emphasized the need to safeguard traditional products such as halloumi, highlighting concerns over how rigorous food safety controls will be maintained. Meanwhile, Linos Papagiannis (ELAM) cautioned against unfair competition, drawing parallels with challenges posed by lower-standard goods from occupied territories.

Protecting Local Interests

The overarching message from lawmakers was clear: the future of Cyprus’ farming community and the well-being of its citizens should not be sacrificed at the altar of commercial trade. Agricultural organizations have voiced alarm over the importation of goods potentially contaminated with banned substances, the risk of market distortion by low-quality products, and the lack of localized impact studies. They argue that the agreement is biased in favor of select corporate interests, ultimately undermining consumer safety and the livelihood of European farmers.

As this debate continues to unfold, the outcome of these deliberations will be pivotal in determining not only trade policy but also the long-term economic and food security landscape of Cyprus.