Google has introduced a new way for users to access their accounts by allowing them to sign in with a short selfie video, adding another option for account recovery.
The feature lets eligible users record a brief video of themselves following guided head movements. With the user’s consent, the video is securely stored and can later be used to verify their identity during sign-in or account recovery.
Google said the feature is intended for users who have forgotten their passwords, lost access to their devices or cannot use their usual authentication methods.
To enroll, users record a short video while following on-screen prompts that capture multiple angles of their face. During future sign-in attempts, they record another selfie video, which Google compares with the saved version to confirm their identity while checking that the recording is live.
The company said the system includes liveness detection and other safeguards to help prevent fraud using photos or AI-generated deepfakes.
Selfie videos are encrypted, can be deleted at any time and will only be used for sign-in unless users choose to opt in to additional uses.
Google said the feature will roll out globally in phases to eligible account holders. Users who have access can enable it through the Security & sign-in section of their Google Account settings.
