Why AI Video Colorization Is Revolutionizing Media in 2025

The field of video enhancement has undergone a massive transformation, driven largely by artificial intelligence. Among the most compelling innovations is AI video colorization, which has captured the imagination of both casual users and professional creators.

Google Trends reveals a steady rise in searches for terms like "colorize black and white video" and "AI color grading" indicating a growing public interest. YouTube is also brimming with videos showcasing restored historical footage, classic cinema clips, and personal family recordings-all brought to life with AI-powered color.

Part 1. What Is AI Video Colorization?

AI video colorization refers to the use of artificial intelligence-especially deep learning models-to automatically apply color to grayscale footage. Unlike manual editing, which requires frame-by-frame color correction and artistic judgment, AI relies on vast datasets of visual information to predict the most likely colors for each scene.

Traditional color grading demands powerful software, GPU-intensive processing, and a trained eye for detail. Tools like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere Pro are effective, but require time, technical skills, and creative input. The AI approach, by contrast, enables users to upload a black-and-white video and receive a fully colorized version within minutes-automatically processed using pretrained neural networks.

Key advantages of AI video colorization include:

• Speed: Full videos processed in minutes
• Accessibility: No technical expertise required
• Batch Processing: Ideal for restoring multiple files
• Visual Accuracy: AI learns from thousands of color references

As AI models improve, so does the realism of the output-often rivaling human-grade work.

Part 2. Why AI Video Colorization Is Booming in 2025

3.1 Democratization of AI Tools

One of the biggest reasons for the boom is accessibility. Powerful AI video enhancement tools are no longer limited to film studios. Solutions like desktop apps and online platforms make it easy for everyday users to colorize old videos with just a few clicks. From professionals to hobbyists, everyone can now access the technology.

3.2 Content Repurposing for Social Media

On platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, creators are breathing new life into old footage. A growing trend involves colorizing clips from the 50s, 60s, or even home VHS tapes, then reposting them as vibrant, nostalgic content. AI color grading transforms what was once considered outdated into share-worthy visual stories.

3.3 Documentaries & Historical Restoration

Major broadcasters such as BBC and Netflix have adopted AI colorization in their historical documentaries. Instead of investing months of manual labor, they now rely on AI to accurately restore footage while preserving authenticity. This enables faster production, lower costs, and a broader appeal to modern audiences.

3.4 AI Creativity & Generative Video

AI tools are not only used for restoration-they are now part of the creative process. Some creators use AI colorization for animated or sketch-style videos, generating unique aesthetics by applying color models to stylized black-and-white footage. HitPaw VikPea, for instance, supports a dedicated Animation Model, allowing users to colorize anime or hand-drawn videos for platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.

Part 3. HitPaw VikPea: Colorize Videos on PC & Mac

HitPaw VikPea is a next-gen AI video enhancer that includes a powerful Colorize Model designed specifically for reviving black-and-white videos. It blends deep learning with intuitive design, making advanced colorization technology available to all users.

Key Features:

• Specialized AI model for black & white video colorization
• Real-time preview with before/after slider
• Supports face-aware color rendering for better realism
• Exports in up to 4K resolution
• Dedicated animation model for line art or anime

How to Colorize Videos Using HitPaw VikPea

• Step 1.Install HitPaw VikPea on your PC or Mac. Launch it after installation, choose AI Color feature from the sidebar. You'll see there are four AI color models.

  

• Step 2.Drag and drop your black-and-white footage into the software interface. Choose an AI model that suits your video. The SDR to HDR intelligently converts standard dynamic range (SDR) footage into HDR-like visuals, while the Colorize Model adds authentic, lifelike colors to black-and-white content.

  

• Step 3:After you choose the model, click Preview button to see a side-by-side before-and-after comparison.

  

• Step 4.In the Export settings, you can set up the resolution, crop, bit rate and format to export.

  

• Step 5.Click "Export" to save your fully colorized video in up to 4K resolution.

  

The Bottom Line

As AI technology becomes faster, more accessible, and more intelligent, its applications in video enhancement continue to grow-especially in the field of colorization. From casual creators to film restorers, AI video colorization is now a powerful tool for storytelling, education, and content innovation.

With platforms like HitPaw VikPea, anyone can breathe new life into old footage in just a few clicks. Whether you're restoring memories or crafting new stories with a vintage touch, AI-powered color grading is your key to the future of visual creativity.

Disclaimer: All video restoration or modification should comply with local copyright regulations. Always ensure you have the right to enhance or repurpose any footage you process.