Google announced in 2026 a new account recovery method called selfie video, giving users an additional way to regain access if they are locked out, forget their password, or cannot reach the phone, computer, or two-factor authentication apps they normally rely on.
The feature works by having users record a short video of their face on a mobile device or PC. That video is then compared against a reference video Google stores on file to confirm the person is the account owner. Setup involves looking at the device’s camera and following onscreen prompts that guide simple head movements, capturing multiple angles of the face. Google describes the process as similar to the setup procedure for Apple’s Face ID, but without the need for infrared light.
When signing in, users record another short video performing simple movements to demonstrate the footage is live. Google says multiple layers of security are used to guard against impersonation attempts using photos or deepfake videos, alongside the company’s “standard security practices” to block suspicious sign-in attempts.
The reference video is encrypted and stored in the cloud, making it accessible from more than just the device where it was created. Users can delete the stored video at any time through their account settings. By default, the video is used only for sign-in purposes, though Google says users can “opt to share it for additional purposes.”
Google is rolling out the feature gradually through a phased global rollout. Users can check whether their account is eligible and set up selfie video at g.co/signin-selfie.
Source: The Verge