Google has introduced a selfie video sign-in feature that gives eligible users a new way to recover access to their Google Accounts if they are locked out or unable to use their usual phone or computer.
The new account recovery option is designed to help users regain access to important personal information, including emails, photos, files and documents, while adding another layer of identity verification. Google said the feature complements existing security tools such as passkeys, two-step verification and recovery contacts rather than replacing them.
According to Google, users can check whether the feature is available for their account and set it up through the company’s selfie sign-in page.
How Selfie Video Sign-In Works
To enable the feature, users record a short selfie video while following guided prompts to move their head and capture multiple angles of their face.
If they later lose access to their account, they can record another selfie video during the recovery process. Google compares the new recording with the previously enrolled video to verify the user’s identity before restoring account access.
The company said the feature provides an additional recovery option for people who cannot access their primary device or standard authentication methods.
Built With Privacy and Security
Google said selfie videos are recorded only with the user’s consent and are encrypted while stored. Users remain in control of their data and can delete their selfie video at any time through their Google Account settings.
The company also said the stored video is used only to help verify identity during sign-in unless users separately choose to share it for other purposes.
To reduce the risk of impersonation, Google uses multiple security checks, including live movement verification and comparisons between the new recording and the enrolled selfie video. The company said these measures help detect fake photos, manipulated videos and deepfake attempts during account recovery.
Google added that its existing systems for identifying suspicious sign-in activity continue to work alongside the new verification process.
Part of Google’s Broader Security Strategy
The selfie video feature expands Google’s existing account protection tools, which already include passkeys, recovery contacts and two-factor authentication.
The company recommends that users set up multiple recovery methods to reduce the likelihood of losing access to their accounts if a device is lost, replaced or becomes unavailable.
Google said the feature is rolling out for eligible accounts, and users can visit the selfie sign-in setup page to check whether it is currently available to them.
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