Video capture from Vimeo depends on the permissions Vimeo’s API allows at the moment the recording is made. Vimeo changed these permissions, which affects how video files are retrieved for some account types. This article explains what is currently supported and what to expect.
Current Vimeo Changes
Vimeo has updated its API rules for downloading video files. Accounts on the free Vimeo tier no longer allow external systems to retrieve full video files through the API. This affects how recordings appear in your account.
How This Affects Video Capture
Free Vimeo Accounts
A record entry for the video is still created
A thumbnail is still created
Comments, edits, and deletions are still captured
The video file itself cannot be downloaded or stored
All parts of the record are preserved except the video file.
Paid Vimeo Accounts
Full video file capture is supported
Video files can be downloaded and stored
Private videos can also be retrieved when permissions allow
Existing Archived Videos
Any video files already archived before these changes remain available. This update does not affect previously stored video files.
Why This is Happening
Video capture depends on the access Vimeo grants through its API. Vimeo’s permission changes have restricted video file retrieval for free-tier accounts. We have evaluated alternative technical options, but no reliable solution currently exists. We will continue to monitor Vimeo’s platform for changes that could restore this capability.
What You Can Do
If you need access to full video files for future recordings, upgrading your Vimeo account to a paid plan will restore that functionality.
If you need help retrieving video files from past recordings after upgrading, let our support team know. We can review those recordings and attempt to retrieve any available files.
Ongoing Updates
If Vimeo introduces new permissions or options that change the current behavior, we will update this article.