Google has added selfie video as a new option for logging into a Google account, giving users another way to authenticate their identity using their face. It has long been possible to access a Google account using facial recognition through a phone’s face unlock feature or biometric passkey verification, but this new option offers an additional method that could prove useful when a person does not have access to their usual phone or computer, or finds themselves locked out with other login options unavailable.
To use the feature, users first need to set it up through Google’s My Account page by navigating to Security and Sign-in, then selecting Selfie Video under the How You Sign In To Google section. Users with a computer camera can complete the setup directly, while those without one can scan a QR code with their phone to finish the process. Google advises removing glasses or masks before recording and avoiding backgrounds with other people or excessive visual clutter during setup.
During both the initial verification and each subsequent login, Google will prompt users to turn their heads in specific directions. The company said this step is designed to guard against impersonation attempts, including deepfake videos, and to confirm that a real person is present in front of the camera at the time of login. Google will store the selfie video and use it for comparison during future sign-in attempts.
According to the company, the selfie video will be encrypted and used solely to facilitate account sign-in, and users who wish to remove it can do so at any time through the Video Verification page in their Google account settings. The feature is not currently available for Google Workspace accounts, child accounts, or accounts enrolled in Google’s Advanced Protection Program, limiting its rollout to standard personal accounts for now.
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