Before you start
Check the account shown in Gemini.
Use the same Google Account for every step
In Gemini, select your profile picture and note the email address. When you open your Google Account settings, make sure you are signed in with that same email address.
A free Gemini account is not automatically the problem. Google describes Storybook as available globally in the Gemini app. Age, account type, location and administrator settings can still affect whether a feature appears.
There is no account-setting fix. Google currently says Storybook is unavailable to users under 18. Do not enter a false birth date.
Check your date of birth
Make sure your Google Account contains your real, correct birth date.
- Open your Google Account birthday settingsGo to myaccount.google.com/birthday.
- Check the signed-in accountConfirm that it is the same Google Account you use in Gemini.
- Correct the date if necessaryEnter your real date of birth. Storybook requires the account holder to be 18 or older.
- Save the changeSelect Save. Google may then ask you to verify your age.
Complete Google’s age verification
Only if Google prompts you to verify.
Follow the instructions shown by Google. The methods available vary by account, device and region, so you may see only some of these options:
Common verification methods
- Credit card: Google checks that the card is valid. You are not charged for age verification, although a temporary pending authorisation may appear.
- Selfie: Google’s verification partner estimates whether you are old enough. Google says the selfie is deleted after the estimate is completed.
- Government ID: Upload a clear image of an accepted ID, such as a driving licence, passport or national ID card.
Other methods you may see
- Email address: Google’s verification partner checks age signals connected with your email address. This is not a parent-approval email.
- Digital ID: On supported Android devices and in supported regions, Google may allow a digital ID from your device wallet.
- If Google does not offer a method on your screen, you cannot select it manually.
Google does not promise a fixed authorisation amount or instant release. Its help page says a pending authorisation can remain for 1 to 14 business days, depending on your bank.
Open the Storybook Gem
Return to Gemini after your account details are correct.
- Reload GeminiOpen or refresh gemini.google.com.
- Open the Gems catalogueIn the left sidebar, select Explore Gems. On a small screen, open the menu first.
- Choose StorybookSelect Storybook from the complete list of Gems.
- Start your storyEnter your prompt. You can also add photos or files for Gemini to use.
If Storybook is still missing
Work through these checks in order.
- Check the email address again. It is easy to verify one Google Account while Gemini is using another.
- Sign out and sign in again. This can refresh the account session after verification.
- Try a personal Google Account. Work and school accounts can have different feature availability or administrator controls.
- Use an up-to-date supported browser. Google lists Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera and Edge for the Gemini web app.
- Wait briefly after verification. Account changes may not appear in an existing Gemini session immediately.
Wellty cannot change an organisation-managed Google Account. If administrator policy or account eligibility blocks Storybook, use an eligible personal account for the class.
Official Google references
Requirements and verification details checked on 10 August 2026.
Ready for class
Once Storybook appears, open it before the session and keep Gemini signed in on the device you will bring.