Google has amended its privacy policy to permit the use of personal data from Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive for targeted advertising, but only if users connect these services to specific AI features. The change was identified by Android Authority and represents a shift from previous assurances that such data would remain separate from ad targeting systems.
Under the prior version of the policy, Google stated it would not use content from Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos for personalized ads. The updated text, effective as of October 16th, introduces an exception. It now reads that the company will not use this data for ads "unless you choose to make data from these services available to other Google services that support personalized ads." This modification means users who link their personal files or emails to AI Mode or other Search tools may have that information utilized for ad targeting. The Verge reports on the full implications of this policy shift.