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Gemini File Upload Failed

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Workaround available Web, Android, iOS, API Updated November 14, 2026Based on 5 user reportsHow we research

Quick answer

Gemini uploads fail because of file size or type, a stuck chat, or Google-side outages. Retry in a new chat, shrink or convert the file, or add it from Google Drive via the plus menu.

Most likely fix: Restart and retry

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Restart and retry

    1. Fully close the app or browser tab and reopen
    2. Start a New chat and upload again
    Did this fix it?

  2. 2. Fix the file

    1. Convert to a simple JPEG, PNG or PDF
    2. Compress files to roughly under 10-20 MB, trim long videos
    Did this fix it?

  3. 3. Upload via Google Drive

    1. Put the file in Google Drive
    2. In Gemini tap the + menu and choose Drive to insert it
    Did this fix it?

  4. 4. API users

    1. Send small files inline instead of the Files API
    2. Check the forum for Files API incidents
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

Uploading an image, PDF or video shows 'couldn't upload', hangs at processing, or says something went wrong.

Why it happens

  • File too large or unsupported format
  • Long chat holding failed upload state
  • App or tab stuck
  • Files API or service outage
  • Free tier feature limits

This guide also covers

  • gemini file upload failed
  • gemini can't upload image
  • gemini upload not working
  • gemini something went wrong upload

Still not working?

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