Google has introduced a new account recovery method that allows users to log in using a selfie video. This feature, designed to help users regain access if they forget their password or lose their authenticator, requires users to set it up in advance.

Currently, selfie sign-ins are not available for Workspace accounts, child accounts, or those enrolled in Google’s Advanced Protection Program. To enable the feature, users must record a video of their face, which Google will store encrypted on its servers. Google states this video will not be used for other purposes unless users opt-in.

The selfie video can be used for login verification, age verification for certain features, and to create an AI avatar. Users have the option to allow Google to use their video to improve facial recognition technology, but this is not mandatory for using the account recovery feature. Unchecked, the video will only be used for the stated purposes.