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Google Says Gmail and Photos Data Shared with AI Search Could Be Used for Targeted Ads
Google updated its privacy policy, allowing information from Personal Intelligence to personalize ads, a shift from previous promises. Previously, Gmail, Drive, and Photos content were not used for targeted ads by default. This changes if users connect these services to other ad-showing Google services, like Personal Intelligence. Personal Intelligence is an opt-in AI tool that scans connected apps to provide personalized recommendations. For example, it can use Gmail booking confirmations to suggest nearby restaurants. The catch is that AI Mode can display sponsored results based on these interactions. While Google states advertisers don't see personal content, it indirectly shapes ad delivery. Google defends this by asserting app connection is optional, advertisers don't access user content directly, and sensitive topics are excluded. A Google spokesperson clarified that a full inbox scan for ad profiles isn't happening. However, if users feed personal data into AI search tools, ads may be based on that information. To prevent this, users must disable Personal Intelligence and connected apps within Gemini or Google account settings.