Google has started rolling out Project Genie, an experimental research prototype that allows users to create, explore, and remix interactive virtual worlds.
Project Genie
Project Genie is built on Genie 3, a general-purpose world model developed by Google DeepMind. The tool is hosted within Google Labs and provides hands-on access to real-time world generation and exploration.
Genie 3 and world models
A world model simulates how an environment behaves and changes over time, predicting how actions influence outcomes. Earlier AI systems developed by Google DeepMind focused on fixed environments such as Chess and Go. Building more general AI systems, however, requires models that can operate across diverse and dynamic settings.
Genie 3 addresses this requirement. Unlike static 3D environments, the model generates the world continuously in real time as users move and interact. It simulates physics, object interactions, and environmental consistency, supporting use cases across robotics research, animation, fiction, modeling, and historical exploration.
Project Genie builds on insights gathered from trusted testers across multiple industries and domains.
How Project Genie works
Project Genie is a web-based prototype powered by Genie 3, Nano Banana Pro, and Gemini. It is structured around three core functions:
World sketching
Users can generate worlds using text prompts along with generated or uploaded images. The tool allows users to define characters, environments, and movement methods such as walking, riding, flying, or driving.
World Sketching is integrated with Nano Banana Pro, enabling users to preview and refine visual elements before entering the environment. Users can also select viewing perspectives, including first-person or third-person, prior to exploration.
World exploration
Once created, the environment becomes fully navigable. As users move through the space, Project Genie generates the path ahead dynamically in real time, responding to user actions. Camera positioning can also be adjusted during exploration.
World remixing
Users can remix existing worlds by building on original prompts. The prototype includes curated worlds and a randomizer gallery for exploration and experimentation. Users can download videos capturing their worlds and exploration sessions.
Limitations and responsible development
Project Genie is an early-stage research prototype, and Google has outlined several current limitations:
- Generated environments may not always accurately reflect real-world physics or closely follow prompts and images
- Character control can be inconsistent, with higher latency in some cases
- World generation is currently limited to 60 seconds
- Some Genie 3 features announced earlier, such as prompt-driven world events, are not yet included
Availability
Access to Project Genie is rolling out starting today for Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S. (18+). Google states that further improvements and updates are planned, and access will expand to additional regions over time.