Video Effects Editor: Riveo

What it does

Riveo is a sophisticated video and effects composer for mobile devices. It bridges the gap between basic, filter-based video apps and complex desktop software. The app allows users to perform multi-layer editing, apply advanced visual effects, and leverage AI to generate and transform both video and images, all within a touch-based interface.

Where it shines

Riveo stands out by making professional-grade tools accessible. The compositing mask feature (01:51) is a prime example, allowing creators to use one video layer to reveal another in a visually interesting way. The interactive speed ramping (06:25) is another highlight, where users draw a curve to create smooth, cinematic slow-motion effects. Finally, the AI Brush (10:42) seamlessly integrates generative AI, enabling users to transform parts of their images with simple text prompts, like adding sunglasses to a person or changing a background to a forest.

UX highlights

Direct Manipulation: Many features, like the speed curve and gradient tools (12:05), use direct, hands-on controls that provide immediate visual feedback.
Contextual Tutorials: The app uses modals and overlays to teach complex features in context, such as the 'What's New' tour (01:51) that appears after subscribing.
Organized Toolsets: Editing tools are grouped logically at the bottom of the screen, with clear icons for media, effects, text, and music.
Long Press for Advanced Actions: The app introduces gestures like long-pressing to select multiple layers (08:33), an efficient power-user shortcut.
AI Integration: AI features feel like a natural extension of the creative toolkit, rather than a separate, gimmicky mode.
Template-Driven Creation: For users who don't want to start from scratch, the app offers a library of pre-built templates (15:15) that can be easily customized.

Monetization & growth

The app presents a paywall after an initial value proposition showcase but before the user can access the editor (01:10). It offers a 3-day free trial for an annual subscription ($49.99/year) or a one-time lifetime purchase option ($149.00). The paywall effectively uses social proof, displaying an 'Apple Design Award' badge and star ratings. The app also has a referral system where users can 'Earn AI Coins' (18:38) by inviting friends, which creates a viral growth loop tied to the consumption of premium AI features.

Who it’s for

Riveo is designed for prosumer content creators and social media enthusiasts who have outgrown basic editing apps like CapCut or Instagram's native tools. Its feature set is ideal for those looking to create highly stylized, visually dynamic videos for platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. The advanced tools suggest a target user who is willing to invest a little time to learn in exchange for greater creative control.

Notes & opportunities

The onboarding flow is quite long and places several hurdles (tracking permission, sign-up, paywall, other permissions) before the user can even try the editor. While this may filter for high-intent users, it could also cause significant drop-off. The AI video generation feature failed during the test (05:36), which can be frustrating and erode trust in costly AI features. Improving the reliability and feedback for these generative tools would be a key area for enhancement.