Gemini’s recent update introduces direct video upload and analysis, a capability that shifts how users interact with Google’s AI assistant on mobile devices. Previously, Gemini could only analyze YouTube links or static images, but the new feature allows users to upload their own video files and receive detailed, context-aware responses about the content. This upgrade gives Gemini a competitive edge, especially for those who want quick insights from their personal video footage.

Uploading and Analyzing Videos in Gemini

Step 1: Open the Gemini app on your Android or iOS device. Make sure you’re running the latest version (at least Google app 16.23 beta on Android). If you don’t see the feature, it may not have reached your account yet, as the rollout is staggered.

Step 2: In a new or existing chat, tap the + button near the prompt field. This action brings up the attachment menu, where you can select files from your device.

Step 3: Choose either Gallery or Files. If video upload is available on your account, video files will be selectable. If not, they’ll appear grayed out and can’t be chosen yet.

Step 4: Select a video (up to five minutes in length, or a combined five minutes if attaching multiple clips) and upload it to the chat. The video appears above the conversation in a player interface, allowing you to replay it as needed.

Step 5: Enter your question or prompt. You can ask Gemini to describe the video, identify specific objects, explain actions, or provide details about certain timestamps. For example, you might ask, What’s happening at the 20-second mark? or Can you summarize this clip?

Gemini processes both the visuals and audio in your video, delivering a text response that often includes context such as location, time of day, and notable objects or actions. The analysis is displayed alongside the video, making it easy to reference specific moments.

Current Limitations and Platform Support

At launch, video upload and analysis are available on Android and iOS devices. The feature works for both free and paid Gemini accounts, including 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models. However, there is no web support yet—attempting to upload a video from the web version results in a File type unsupported message in the prompt bar.

Additionally, you cannot record a new video directly from within the Gemini app at this time. The built-in camera function only allows photo capture for prompts. Google is working on integrating direct video recording in a future update, as revealed by recent app teardowns, but this capability is not yet live.

If you need to analyze a video longer than five minutes, one workaround is to upload the video as an unlisted clip on YouTube, then paste the link into Gemini for analysis using the existing YouTube integration.

Comparing Gemini’s Video Analysis to Other AI Assistants

With this update, Gemini matches or exceeds similar features found in competing AI assistants. ChatGPT, for example, has supported video uploads for analysis, but Gemini’s integration with the Google app ecosystem streamlines the process for Android and iOS users. Notably, Gemini’s video analysis can identify locations, recognize objects, and even estimate when a video was recorded, offering practical advantages for quick content review.

Users have reported accurate identification of scenes, objects, and even breeds of animals in their uploaded videos. The ability to ask follow-up questions about specific segments or details within the clip allows for a more interactive and insightful experience compared to static image analysis.

What to Expect Next

Google is actively developing additional features for Gemini’s video analysis. Upcoming updates are expected to introduce direct video recording within the app, removing the need to use third-party camera apps. Broader web support is also anticipated, which will allow users to upload and analyze videos directly from desktop browsers.

For now, the video upload feature is rolling out in phases. If you don’t see it on your device, check for app updates regularly or wait for the feature to reach your account. Google typically expands availability quickly once initial testing is complete.

Gemini’s new video upload and analysis capability streamlines how users extract information from their own footage, making the AI assistant more versatile and practical for everyday tasks.