Adobe announced a multi-year strategic partnership with AI video generator Runway on December 18, 2025. Under the agreement, Adobe becomes Runway’s preferred API creativity partner for generative video technology.
The partnership brings together Runway’s innovative video models with Adobe’s creative tools. Hollywood studios, streaming platforms, media companies, and independent creators will benefit from the collaboration.
What the Partnership Delivers
Adobe customers will get first access to Runway’s newest models going forward. The two companies will also co-develop specialized AI tools for professional video workflows.
New features will debut in Adobe Firefly first. They will then integrate into Premiere Pro, After Effects, and other Creative Cloud apps. Adobe and Runway plan to work directly with filmmakers, studios, and agencies.
The partnership’s first result brings Runway’s Gen-4.5 model to Adobe Firefly. Firefly Pro subscribers gained early access with unlimited generations until December 22. Standard usage limits apply after the promotional period ends.
Gen-4.5 Capabilities
Runway’s most advanced video model Gen-4.5 generates video from text prompts. The model delivers realistic physics simulation and consistent character movements across shots.
Gen-4.5 enables users to stage complex, multi-element scenes with precise compositions. Expressive characters maintain their gestures and facial performances from shot to shot.
Runway claims the model represents a generational leap over previous versions.
Motion quality, prompt adherence, and visual fidelity have all improved significantly. Users can explore different visual directions, pacing, and motion options. Generated content moves directly into Firefly’s video editor for assembly and refinement.
Creators can then export their generations into Premiere and After Effects. The seamless workflow keeps everything inside Adobe’s ecosystem without separate platforms.
Executive Comments
Adobe Digital Media CTO Ely Greenfield explained the strategic rationale. He noted that AI transforms video production across the industry. Professionals now turn to Adobe’s creative ecosystem for their storytelling needs.
“Runway’s generative video innovation combined with Adobe’s trusted workflows will help creators expand their potential,” Greenfield stated.
Runway CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela highlighted the expanded reach for his company’s technology. He emphasized that Gen-4.5 redefines creativity, storytelling, and entertainment.
“This partnership puts our latest technology in front of more storytellers,” Valenzuela added. Adobe’s creative tools already serve as the industry standard for many creators worldwide.
Adobe’s Multi-Model Strategy
Adobe embraces a multi-model approach within its Firefly platform. Users can leverage different AI models depending on project requirements and creative needs.
Current partners include Black Forest Labs, ElevenLabs, Google, Luma AI, OpenAI, and Topaz Labs. The Runway deal adds significant video generation power to this growing ecosystem.
The company positions AI as a tool to support human creativity rather than replace it. Adobe confirmed that content generated in Firefly won’t train AI models.
Competing With OpenAI Sora
Runway sits in the same space as tools like OpenAI’s Sora. However, Runway focuses more on practical production applications for professionals.
The Adobe partnership strengthens Runway’s position against well-funded competitors. Disney recently struck a deal with OpenAI to bring characters to Sora. Adobe’s Runway alliance creates a competing pipeline for creators who prefer established software workflows.
Source: Adobe Newsroom
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