Uploading long videos, specifically those over 15 minutes, on YouTube requires a simple but crucial step: verifying your Google Account. Once verified, the process of uploading your lengthy content follows the standard YouTube upload workflow.
Understanding the Requirement for Long Videos
By default, YouTube accounts have a 15-minute upload limit. To upload videos that are longer than this duration, you must first verify your Google Account. This one-time verification process confirms your identity and unlocks extended features, including longer uploads, custom thumbnails, live streaming, and appealing content ID claims.
Step-by-Step Guide to Uploading Long Videos
The process for uploading long videos on YouTube involves initiating the upload and, if necessary, completing the account verification.
Initiating the Upload
- Sign In: Ensure you are signed in to your YouTube account (or the Google Account linked to your YouTube channel).
- Start Upload: Navigate to the upload icon (often a camera or "Create" button) and select "Upload video."
- Select Your Long Video: Select a video longer than 15 minutes from your device. Drag and drop the file, or browse to select it.
Providing Video Details
After selecting your video, you'll be prompted to provide essential information:
- Enter Details: Choose your video's title, description, and settings. This includes setting the audience (e.g., "Made for Kids" or not), adding tags, and selecting a thumbnail.
- Proceed: After filling in the necessary information, then tap NEXT.
Google Account Verification (Crucial for Long Videos)
If your Google Account is not yet verified for extended uploads, YouTube will prompt you to do so at this stage, or you may need to complete it beforehand via your YouTube Studio settings (e.g., "Feature eligibility").
- Follow the steps to verify your Google Account.
- You will be asked to choose a verification method to receive a code:
- Text Message: You can choose to get a verification code through a text message on a mobile device.
- Automated Voice Call: or an automated voice call.
- Enter Code: Once you receive the code, enter it into the provided field to complete the verification. This step is usually quick and straightforward.
Finalizing the Upload
After successful verification (if needed) and entering your video details:
- Video Elements: Add video elements like end screens or cards, if desired.
- Checks: YouTube will perform checks for copyright issues and ad suitability.
- Visibility: Choose your video's visibility settings (e.g., Public, Private, Unlisted, or Schedule).
- Publish: Click "Save" or "Publish" to make your long video available on YouTube.
Once published, your long video will be processed and appear on your channel. The processing time can vary based on the video's length, resolution, and current upload traffic on YouTube.
