Locked Out of Your Google Account? A Selfie Video Could Help You Get Back In

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published July 23, 2026

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Google has launched a new selfie-video sign-in feature designed to give eligible users another way to regain access to their accounts when they forget a password or lose access to their usual phone, computer or authentication method.

The new feature works like a digital spare key. Users must first record a short reference video while following on-screen instructions that ask them to make simple head movements, allowing Google to capture their face from multiple angles.

If the user later has trouble signing in, Google may ask them to record another selfie video. The company’s systems compare the new recording with the previously saved video to confirm that the person attempting to recover the account is its legitimate owner.

The feature must be activated before the user becomes locked out. A selfie video cannot be added while an account recovery request is already underway, making advance setup essential for anyone who wants to use it as a backup recovery option.

Google said the reference video is recorded with the user’s consent, encrypted while stored and available for deletion at any time through Google Account settings. By default, it is used only to assist with signing in unless the user separately agrees to additional uses.

To reduce the risk of identity theft, the verification process requires live facial movements and uses several security checks intended to detect photographs, prerecorded footage, deepfake videos and other impersonation attempts. Google may also request further verification if its systems detect unusual or potentially risky activity.

Google began making the feature available to eligible account holders on July 23, 2026. The rollout is gradual, meaning it may not appear immediately for every user. Eligible users can check the Security & sign-in section of their Google Account to see whether the option is available.

Although the feature could make account recovery easier after a device is lost or stolen, it may also revive concerns about biometric information and the storage of facial data. Google continues to recommend setting up more than one recovery method, including passkeys, recovery contacts and backup codes, rather than relying on a selfie video alone.