Import a video into GeniusClip

A link or a video file

For YouTube, paste a link to an accessible individual video. An ongoing live stream, upcoming video or collection is not a finished video. Private content, access restrictions and platform blocks can prevent downloading.

For files, accepted extensions are MP4, M4V, MOV, WebM and MKV. The extension alone does not make a file readable: it needs valid video and audio tracks. Renaming a file to “.mp4” does not convert its contents.

Use a source you have permission to process and republish. A video being publicly accessible does not itself grant those rights.

Check duration, file size and credits

Videos can be up to four hours long. The standard file limit is 1,024 MB, and your workspace also needs enough storage. The Studio shows the limits applicable to your account.

Credits depend on the source duration and your chosen options. Standard processing costs one credit per minute, rounded up to the next minute. Check the quote before starting. The duration shown by your browser is an estimate; the server’s measurement determines the duration used for processing.

If the file is too large, export a smaller copy from your video editor. Keep speech clear and enough image detail for cropping. Keep the original.

What the local file preview means

When you select a file, the browser tries to read its duration and create a thumbnail directly from the local file. This step does not upload it to the server. Uploading starts when you launch the project.

Some formats or codecs can be read by the server but not by your browser. A missing preview therefore does not prove the file will be rejected. Check the message and selected source; this local reading step is separate from uploading and processing.

What to check when an import does not start

The link cannot be read

Open it in your browser and check that it points to a finished individual video. If you have the file and the necessary rights, try uploading the file.

The file is too large or storage is full

Compare its size with the displayed limit. Free up space in your projects if needed, or prepare a smaller copy.

The file is reported as unreadable

Check that it plays with both picture and sound on your computer. Exporting a new MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio may solve a format incompatibility; it cannot guarantee acceptance of a damaged file.

There are not enough credits

Check the duration and project options, then your balance. The trial and subscriptions are explained on the pricing page.

Starting the project gives no clear result

First check your library to see whether the project already exists. Keep the error message and time of your attempt. Check the status page, then contact support with the project reference if one is displayed.

After import, use the selection guide to review clips before publishing.