Google Changes Rules, Gmail Data May Now Fuel Ad Targeting
A policy update alters long-standing promises about keeping email and photo content out of the ad machine.
By Priya Marino ·
Google has altered its privacy policy in a way that could change what users see in their feeds. The company updated its terms to allow for the use of personal data in targeted advertising. This applies if you use personalized AI features. The change was noticed by Android Authority. It modifies a promise the company previously made regarding Gmail, Drive, and Google Photos. The prior language stated the company would not use this data for ads. As of October 16, the policy now includes an exception. It allows data use unless a user chooses to share it with other services.
The new terms link AI personalization with ad targeting. Specifically, if you connect Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos to AI Mode or other Search tools, the content may be used to serve ads. This connection happens through Google's Personal Intelligence feature. The tool is designed to provide better responses by knowing more about the user. However, the policy now suggests that sharing data for better AI recommendations also opens the door for personalized advertising. The company states that if you search for specific items, you may see related ads on other platforms like YouTube.
There are limits on what advertisers can see. Advertisers do not get direct access to Gmail, Drive, or Photos information. They also do not receive personally identifying details such as a user's name or email address. Google also maintains restrictions on sensitive categories. Ads will not be based on race, sexual orientation, religion, or health. The policy states that services like Search or Gemini Apps may access data from other services. This is done to provide a more personalized experience. Google says it may show ads based on a user's interests or activity.
Users have a way to opt out of this data sharing. You can choose which apps to disconnect from Search's Personal Intelligence features. This can be done through the Search Services Personalization settings page. Users can also disable Personalized Recommendations entirely. This control allows users to prevent personal data from being used for targeted ads. The policy update changes how the company handles data from its most popular services. It links the use of AI tools directly to the ad experience. This change affects how ads are served across Google's network.
