Google updates privacy policy regarding Gmail and Photos data for AI ads

What happened

Google issued an update to its privacy policy on October 16, 2026, which changes how personal data is used for advertising [1, 2]. Previously, the company stated it would not use content from Google Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos for personalized ads [2]. The updated policy includes a clause stating that this restriction does not apply “unless you choose to make data from these services available to other Google services that support personalized ads” [1].

This change relates to a feature released in early 2026 called Personal Intelligence [2]. This tool allows users to connect data from multiple apps to Google AI products, such as the Gemini app, AI Overviews, and AI Mode search tools, to receive better responses or recommendations [1, 2]. While the Gemini app does not currently contain ads, users may see sponsored content within AI search tools [2].

Google has provided several clarifications regarding this update:

• A Google spokesperson stated the clarification does not change how data is handled with advertising partners, noting that the company is not scanning entire inboxes to enhance advertising profiles or sharing this data with third parties [2].
• According to Google, connecting these apps is an opt-in process [2].
• Google claims ads will not be based “directly” on Gmail inboxes or Photos libraries, but will instead remain relevant to user queries, interests, and the context of responses [2].
• The company stated it will not use sensitive categories such as religion, race, health, or sexual orientation to tailor ads [1].
• Advertisers do not receive access to personal identifying details like names, email addresses, or specific content from Drive, Gmail, and Photos [1].

Who is affected

Users who have connected their Google Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos to AI Mode or other Search tools via the Personal Intelligence feature are affected [1]. If these settings are enabled, summaries and insights from personal data may inform the answers provided by AI and the subsequent ads shown in AI search tools [2].

What students should do next

To prevent personal data from being used for targeted ads through these features, users can take the following steps:

• Disconnect specific apps from Search’s Personal Intelligence features [1].
• Disable Personalized Recommendations entirely through the Search Services personalization settings page [1].
• Access Gemini settings for Personal Intelligence to disable connected apps [2].
• Navigate through the main Google account settings via Data & privacy > Personalization settings > Manage Personalized Recommendations in Search Services > Connected Content Apps to disable connections to Workspace and Google Photos [2].