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How to Preview Google Drive Images in Google Sheets Dynamically using Formula

How to Preview Google Drive Images in Google Sheets Dynamically using Formula

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by

Joe @ Simple Metrics

First, try the simple way =IMAGE(Actual Image URL) method first. However, this often fails with image hosted in Google Drive.

Why =IMAGE() Method Fails

=IMAGE("https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A1_OJB3.../view")

This rarely works because Google Sheets cannot process the /view endpoint. Instead, you need the direct image URL, which uses the uc?id= parameter.

The Solution: Combine IMAGE + REGEXEXTRACT

By extracting the unique file ID from your Drive link and appending it to Google’s direct image URL, you can display images seamlessly. Here’s how:

  1. Place Your Drive Link in a Cell
    Example: Paste https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TY11t3YHHZYtD.../view into cell A2.
  2. Use This Formula Referencing A2:
=IMAGE("https://drive.google.com/uc?id=" & REGEXEXTRACT(A2, "d/(.*?)/"))

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Invalid Link? Ensure your Drive URL is shared with “Anyone with the link” permissions.
  • Formula Errors: Double-check for typos in REGEXEXTRACT or extra characters in the URL.

FAQ

Q: Will this method work for PDFs or videos?
A: No, this technique is optimized for image files (JPEG, PNG, etc.).

Q: Can I use shortened Drive links?
A: No. The formula requires the full URL to extract the file ID.

Q: Is this compliant with Google’s policies?
A: Yes, as long as you have rights to share the images.