Google blocks Gemini Omni video editing in Illinois and Texas
Google’s Gemini Omni cannot edit uploaded videos for users in Illinois or Texas. Google Flow displays a regional error when affected users attempt the feature, and Google’s documentation confirms that editing non-AI videos is unavailable in those two states. The restriction does not apply to general AI video generation: users may still create videos and edit AI-generated clips saved in their generation history.
Google has not publicly explained why Illinois and Texas are excluded. Both states regulate biometric information such as voiceprints and facial geometry. Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act requires covered companies to provide notice and obtain consent before collecting biometric identifiers, while Texas has similar consent requirements. However, neither law specifically prohibits AI video editing, and Google has not confirmed that the state laws caused the restriction.
Google has previously faced biometric-privacy litigation in both states, including a $100 million Illinois settlement involving Google Photos face grouping and a broader $1.375 billion Texas privacy settlement. The Gemini Omni restriction provides a current example of how access to an online service can differ by state as companies respond to varying privacy requirements.