Twitter thrives on quick, engaging content. As the fast-paced world evolves, so too does video. Whether it’s a product demo, a funny clip, or a tutorial, embedding a video on Twitter can expand your reach. According to Twitter 2024 statistics, Tweets with videos get 10 times more engagement than text-only posts.
So, how do you embed a video on Twitter? This guide walks you through the process step by step for desktop, iPhone, and Android users. We’ll share pro tips and explain how to make your videos stand out in 2025.
What does “embed a video on Twitter” mean?
First, let’s clarify the term. “Embed a video on Twitter” can mean two things:
Uploading a video directly to a Tweet, where the video plays natively in the Tweet.
Linking to an external video (like YouTube) that displays a playable preview.
In this guide, we’ll focus on how to upload a video directly to Twitter, as it’s the most direct way to keep your audience on the platform.
Twitter supports MP4 and MOV formats, with a maximum file size of 512MB and a length of 2 minutes and 20 seconds (10 minutes for verified accounts).
Method 1: Embed videos on Twitter via desktop
- Using a desktop browser gives you the most control when embedding videos on Twitter. It’s simple, here’s how.
- Log in to Twitter: Open your browser (Google, Chrome, Safari, etc.), type twitter.com into the input box, and log in to your Twitter account.
- Add your video: Click the media icon (picture symbol) below the text box at the top of the page. Select your video file from your computer. Supported formats are MP4 or MOV — other formats will not work. You can also do this by clicking ‘Post’ in the bottom left corner.
- Edit (optional): Once uploaded, Twitter will allow you to trim your video. If the video is longer than 2:20, drag the slider to trim it down. You can also add a thumbnail by selecting a frame.
- Post a Tweet: Type your message (up to 280 characters) and click ‘Tweet.’ The video will be embedded directly and played in followers’ feeds.
Pro Tips
- File Preparation: Before uploading, check the resolution of your video — Twitter recommends 1280×720 for HD quality. If needed, convert or compress it using a tool like HandBrake. A 500MB file at 1080p can drop to 200MB without losing clarity, staying under the 512MB limit.
- Suggested Image: Screenshot of the Twitter desktop compose window with the media icon circled and the video being uploaded. This will show users exactly where to click and what to expect.
Why choose a desktop for Twitter videos?
Desktop offers a larger screen for editing and previewing, and drag-and-drop is also very convenient. It’s perfect for uploading polished content like marketing videos or tutorials.
Method 2: Embed videos on Twitter via iPhone
- Embedding videos on iPhone is just as easy, thanks to the Twitter app’s mobile design. Here’s the step-by-step guide.
- Open the Twitter app: Open the Twitter app on your iPhone (update to the latest version for best results).
- Compose a Tweet: Tap the feather icon (bottom right) to start a new Tweet.
- Attach a video: Tap the media icon (camera symbol) below the text field. Select Photos or Gallery, then select your video from the Photos app.
- Trim as needed: If the video is too long, drag the edges in the preview to shorten it to 2:20 or less. Tap Done to confirm.
- Send: Add a caption, then tap Tweet. The video is embedded and plays in line.
What to do
- iPhone storage tips: iPhone videos often come from the Camera Roll, which means the files can be large (e.g., a 5-minute 4K clip takes up 1GB). Use the Photos app to trim or export at a lower resolution (720p) before uploading to stay under 512MB.
- Recommended image: The iPhone screen shows the Twitter app’s compose screen with a video selected and the trim slider displayed. This visual walks iPhone users through the upload process.
Why use an iPhone to upload Twitter videos?
iPhone mobile devices are more portable and perfect for posting on-the-go clips of events or spontaneous shares. Twitter automatically optimizes videos for feed playback.
Method 3: Embed videos on Twitter from Android
The experience for Android users is similar to that of iPhone, but there are slight differences due to the operating system. Here’s how to embed videos on Twitter from an Android device.
- Launch Twitter: Open the Twitter app on your Android phone (make sure it’s updated).
- Create a Tweet: Tap the Compose button (the feather or plus icon, depending on your version).
- Add your video: Tap the media icon (camera or gallery symbol) and select your video from your gallery or files.
- Edit if necessary: If it’s longer than 2:20, use the trim tool to trim it down. Tap Done when you’re finished.
- Post: Write your Tweet and tap Tweet to embed your video.
How-to
Android’s open file system lets you pull videos from anywhere – SD cards, downloads, and more. Use apps like Video Compressor to compress large files to meet Twitter’s 512MB limit without losing quality.
The Android screen shows the Twitter compose window with a video being uploaded and the active trimming option.
Why choose Android for Twitter videos?
Android’s setup is similar to the iPhone’s, but it can access more file types. This makes it great for quick uploads from various sources.
Best Ways to Embed Videos on Twitter
No matter which device you use, these tips can help improve your videos:
- Keep it short: Keep your videos 30-60 seconds long for maximum engagement. According to Twitter’s 2024 data, shorter videos have a 20% higher completion rate.
- Add subtitles: Use Twitter’s subtitle tool or embed subtitles with editing software. According to a 2023 study, more than 80% of social videos are watched on mute.
- Optimize thumbnails: Choose a clear, eye-catching cover. First impressions go a long way in determining whether or not a user clicks.
- Check quality: Aim for 30fps and smooth playback.
Troubleshooting
You may have made a mistake while uploading. Here’s how to fix it:
- Upload failed: Check your file format, it needs to be MP4/MOV and less than 512MB. Convert with VLC if necessary.
- Video too long: Trim the video to under 2:20 (or 10 minutes for verification) before uploading.
- Poor quality: You’ll need to re-export the video at a higher resolution.
Save Twitter videos Want to do something else?
You may not be able to save Twitter videos directly, so you can use a tool like https://xtwdownloader.com/ that lets you save Twitter videos, edit them offline, and then embed them in your tweets. Just copy the tweet link, download, and upload via the steps above.
Legal note before embedding
Twitter’s 2024 terms allow uploading your own videos or videos you have the right to upload. Don’t embed someone else’s videos without consent. Public domain or Creative Commons clips are safe bets if they are attributed.
Why Embed Videos on Twitter in 2025?
Videos dominate on Twitter. Experts predict that by the end of 2025, more than 80% of its traffic will be driven by videos. Unlike external links, embeds allow viewers to engage without leaving the platform. It’s a must for brands, creators, or anyone seeking visibility.
Conclusion
Embedding videos on Twitter using a desktop, iPhone, and Android is simple. Just choose your device and follow the steps. Desktop offers precision, iPhone keeps it mobile, and Android adds flexibility. Follow our video pro tips above, and your videos will perform better.
