Google has revised its privacy policy, indicating that the use of personalized artificial intelligence (AI) features in its Search and Gemini platforms could lead to targeted advertising based on user activity across various Google services. This update was implemented on October 16, 2026, and allows users to permit access to data from services like Google Photos and Workspace apps, including Gmail and Drive, to enhance personalization. This approach could potentially tailor ads more effectively to individual users.
Google’s Updated Privacy Policy
The updated policy clarifies that users have the option to enable certain Google services to access data from other connected services, thereby allowing a more customized user experience. For instance, Search might process data that users have agreed to share in order to personalize content, which encompasses advertisements. However, Google emphasizes that personalized ads based on content from Drive, Gmail, or Photos are not shown unless users explicitly opt-in to share this data with other Google services supporting personalized ads.
Introducing Personal Intelligence in Gemini
Launched in January 2026, Google’s Personal Intelligence feature within Gemini allows users to link services such as Gmail, Google Photos, and YouTube to deliver tailored responses based on chat history and preferences. This feature is currently in beta for users over 18 years old worldwide, except in regions like the European Economic Area, Switzerland, the U.K., and Nigeria. By connecting these services, users can enhance their interactions with AI Mode or Gemini, although it may influence the ads served to them.
Privacy Considerations for Users
While the policy ensures that content from Gmail, Drive, or Photos is not used for ad personalization by default, sharing such data with AI features changes this. Users engaging with AI Mode or Gemini should be aware that their data might contribute to targeted ads. The policy aims to provide transparency regarding how personal data integration into AI tools may impact ad personalization. Users are advised to consider the privacy implications when linking apps for AI functionalities. Options to opt-out or disconnect from Personal Intelligence are available through the Search Services Personalization settings.
In a related development, OpenAI began incorporating ads for logged-in adult users in the U.S. earlier this year. These ads, shown in both free and ChatGPT Go tiers, do not affect chatbot responses and maintain user data privacy. Recently, OpenAI expanded its ad program to 26 additional countries, totaling 89, encompassing regions across Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
OpenAI underscores its commitment to keeping user conversations private from advertisers, ensuring that ads are distinctly labeled and separate from ChatGPT’s responses. This highlights the ongoing balance between ad monetization and user privacy in the evolving landscape of AI-driven services.
