Google Updates Privacy Policy to Allow Personal Data Use for Targeted Ads
Google updated its privacy policy to allow personal data from Gmail, Photos, and Drive for targeted ads if users share it with connected AI services like Gemini.
Google has updated its privacy policy to allow personal data from Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive to be used for targeted advertising, provided users choose to share that information with other supported company services. The updated policy, which took effect on October 16 and was first reported by Android Authority, maintains the default rule that private content from these services is not used for personalized ads, but introduces a specific exception.
According to the revised terms, data may be utilized unless users opt to make information from these services available to other Google platforms that support personalized advertising. The adjustment does not mean the tech giant automatically scans all private emails and photos for ad-targeting purposes; rather, the exception applies specifically to data that users actively choose to share with compatible tools, including Google Search and Gemini.
Expanding Personal Intelligence Features
The policy shift is tied to Google's personal intelligence features, which allow services like Search and Gemini to access data from connected applications in order to deliver more relevant recommendations. For instance, a user might permit access to their Gmail inbox to organize a trip or receive restaurant suggestions near a booked hotel. Under the updated terms, data shared for these functional purposes may also influence the advertisements displayed to the user.
Throughout 2026, Google has expanded its artificial intelligence capabilities, introducing features such as an AI-powered Gmail inbox that analyzes messages, highlights essential information, and tracks upcoming tasks. Part of this processed data may now also impact targeted ads. Meanwhile, Google maintains that advertisers do not gain direct access to private emails, photos, or personally identifiable information without explicit permission.
User Controls and Privacy Concerns
The modification comes amid broader scrutiny regarding Google's handling of user account data. In September, the corporation began analyzing Google Search queries and YouTube watch histories in Canada to estimate users' ages, a move that may require some adults to verify their identities online.
Users concerned about the updated policy can disconnect Gmail, Google Photos, and other integrated applications from personal intelligence features or disable personalized recommendations within their Google account settings. However, according to Android Authority, disconnecting an application does not necessarily delete data that Google has already retained within its search service history.
