Google updates its privacy policy to let personal data from Gmail and Photos influence targeted ads.
In a notable shift regarding user data handling, Google has quietly updated its privacy policy to allow personal information from Gmail, Google Photos, and Drive to potentially be used for targeted advertising.
The policy change, which officially took effect on October 16, introduces a significant exception to the company's previous promise that it would not use content from these core services to personalize advertisements.
The update specifically impacts users who connect their personal information to Google's AI-powered services, including Search and Gemini, according to information published by dexerto.
How Personal Intelligence Features Change Ad Targeting
The privacy policy modification is directly connected to Google's Personal Intelligence features, which allow services like Search and Gemini to access information from connected apps to provide more relevant recommendations.
For example, a user might give Google access to their Gmail inbox to help organize travel plans or find restaurant recommendations near a hotel reservation. Under the updated policy, information shared for those personalized experiences could also be used to determine which advertisements appear.
Exceptions to Default Privacy Protections
According to Google's updated privacy policy, the technology giant still promises not to use Gmail, Drive, or Google Photos content for targeted advertising by default.
However, the policy now includes an important exception, stating that this restriction no longer necessarily applies unless users choose to make data from these services available to other Google services that support personalized ads.
Broader AI Integration and Regulatory Scrutiny
The policy update arrives as Google has been expanding its AI capabilities throughout 2026, including the introduction of an AI-powered Gmail inbox that analyzes messages to highlight important information, reminders, and upcoming tasks.
This change also comes as the company faces broader scrutiny over account information, including a September initiative where the company began analyzing Canadian Google searches and YouTube viewing histories to estimate user ages.
How Users Can Manage Connected Apps and Settings
Users concerned about the latest privacy change can disconnect Gmail, Google Photos, and other connected apps from Personal Intelligence or disable Personalized Recommendations through their Google Account settings.
However, industry reports note that simply disconnecting an app does not necessarily delete information that Google previously saved in Search Services History, leaving past data intact unless managed manually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google use Gmail and Photos for targeted ads by default?
No, Google still promises not to use Gmail, Drive, or Google Photos content for targeted advertising by default, unless you choose to share data with eligible services.
What triggers the new ad targeting exception in Google's privacy policy?
The exception applies when users connect their personal information to AI-powered services like Search and Gemini through Personal Intelligence features.
Can I disconnect Gmail and Google Photos from Google AI features?
Yes, users can disconnect Gmail, Google Photos, and other apps from Personal Intelligence or turn off Personalized Recommendations in their Google Account settings.
Does disconnecting apps delete previously saved Google data?
No, disconnecting an app does not necessarily delete information that Google previously saved in Search Services History.
