Google is introducing a new recovery option that lets users verify their identity with a video selfie if they lose access to their account. The feature is designed to help people regain entry to Gmail, Drive, Photos, and other Google services with a more personal sign-in check.
To use it, eligible users can record a short selfie video through a phone camera or webcam. If they later get locked out, Google compares the new recording with the original video stored in the account. The company says the process is being released gradually, so availability may vary by user.
Google says the video is stored securely with consent, can be deleted at any time, and is encrypted while at rest. The company also notes that the feature may support broader work on facial recognition, age estimation, and other verification tools.
To strengthen protection against fake media, Google says the system includes multiple security layers and simple movement checks during recording. Standard account safeguards remain active as well, including extra verification when sign-in attempts appear unusual.
As digital identity tools evolve, video-based verification could become a practical backup for everyday account access and a sign of more intuitive security in the future.
