Google Gemini App Now Lets You Upload and Analyze Videos—Here’s How

Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, is leveling up! A recent update has introduced a game-changing feature: direct video upload and analysis. This enhancement marks a significant shift in how users interact with Gemini on their mobile devices, empowering them to unlock valuable insights from their personal video libraries. Previously limited to analyzing YouTube links or static images, Gemini can now delve into your own video files, providing context-aware responses and detailed information. This upgrade puts Gemini ahead of the curve, offering a powerful tool for anyone seeking quick answers and understanding from their video footage.

How to Upload and Analyze Videos in Gemini: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to explore Gemini’s new video analysis capabilities? Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

Step 1: Open the Gemini App

Launch the Gemini app on your Android or iOS device. Ensure you have the latest version installed. Keep in mind that the feature rollout is staggered, so it may not be available to all users immediately. Check that you have at least the Google app version 16.23 beta on Android.

Step 2: Access the Attachment Menu

In a new or existing chat, tap the “+” button located near the prompt field. This action will open the attachment menu, where you can select files from your device.

Step 3: Select Your Video

Choose either “Gallery” or “Files” from the attachment options. If video upload is available on your account, video files will be selectable. If the option is not yet available to you, the video files will appear grayed out.

Step 4: Upload Your Video

Select a video from your device. Note that the current limit is a maximum of five minutes in length, or a combined five minutes if you’re attaching multiple clips. Once selected, the video will upload to the chat. You’ll see a video player interface above the conversation, allowing you to replay the video as needed.

Step 5: Ask Your Questions!

Enter your question or prompt in the text field. You can ask Gemini to describe the video, identify specific objects, explain actions, or request details about particular timestamps. For example, you might ask, “What’s happening at the 1-minute mark?” or “Summarize this clip, please.”

Gemini will process both the visual and audio components of your video, providing a text-based response that often includes contextual information such as location, estimated time of day, and notable objects or actions. The analysis is conveniently displayed alongside the video, making it easy to reference specific moments.

Current Limitations and Platform Support: What You Need to Know

While the new video upload and analysis feature is exciting, there are a few current limitations to be aware of:

• Platform Availability: The feature is currently available on Android and iOS devices.
• Account Support: It works for both free and paid Gemini accounts, including 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models.
• Web Support: There is no web support at this time. Attempts to upload a video from the web version will result in a “File type unsupported” message.
• Direct Recording: You cannot directly record a new video within the Gemini app at this time. The built-in camera function only supports photo capture.

Workarounds: If you need to analyze a video longer than five minutes, you can upload it as an unlisted clip on YouTube and then paste the link into Gemini for analysis using the existing YouTube integration.

Gemini vs. the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?

Gemini’s new video analysis capabilities put it in direct competition with other AI assistants. ChatGPT, for example, has supported video uploads for analysis. However, Gemini’s integration within the Google app ecosystem provides a seamless experience for Android and iOS users. Gemini’s ability to identify locations, recognize objects, and even estimate when a video was recorded offers practical advantages for quick content review.

Users have reported impressive results, with Gemini accurately identifying scenes, objects, and even animal breeds in their uploaded videos. The ability to ask follow-up questions about specific segments or details within the clip creates a more interactive and insightful experience than static image analysis.

The Future of Gemini Video Analysis: What’s Next?

Google is committed to enhancing Gemini’s video analysis capabilities. Upcoming updates are expected to include:

• Direct Video Recording: Integration of direct video recording within the app, eliminating the need for third-party camera apps.
• Expanded Web Support: The ability to upload and analyze videos directly from desktop browsers.

The video upload feature is currently being rolled out in phases. If you don’t see it on your device, ensure your app is up to date, or wait for the feature to become available in your account.

Conclusion:

Gemini’s new video upload and analysis feature represents a significant leap forward in the capabilities of AI assistants. By simplifying the process of extracting information from your video content, Gemini empowers users to gain valuable insights quickly and efficiently. As Google continues to refine and expand these features, Gemini is poised to become an even more indispensable tool for everyday tasks and content exploration.