Google Updates Privacy Policy to Allow Gmail Data for Ads

Google has revised its privacy rules. The change allows the company to use your Gmail and Google Photos data for targeted ads. This happens if you use personalized AI features. The update was noticed by Android Authority. It adds a specific exception to Google’s previous promises. Earlier versions stated that Google would not use Drive, Gmail, or Photos for ad targeting. That stance has shifted. As of October 16th, new language was added. It says Google may use this data unless you stop sharing it with other services.

The new terms link AI benefits to ad targeting. Sharing data for better AI recommendations now opens that data up for ads. This affects users who connected their accounts to AI Mode. It also covers users of other Search tools. Google’s Personal Intelligence feature allows these tools to know more about you. This helps them provide better responses. However, it also means your content may influence the ads you see. If you opted in to these features, your personal files are now in scope.

There are limits to what advertisers can see. They do not get direct access to your Drive, Gmail, or Photos. They also do not see personal details like your name or email address. Google states it will not show ads based on sensitive categories. These include race, sexual orientation, religion, and health. The policy clarifies how this access works. It says you may allow services like Search or Gemini Apps to read from other services. This includes Workspace apps like Gmail and Drive. The goal is to provide a more personalized experience.

The policy includes a specific example. It notes that Search may process data to personalize content. This includes ads. Depending on your settings, Google may show ads based on your interests. It may also use your activity or personalized content. For instance, if you search for mountain bikes, you might see sports equipment ads on YouTube. This connects your search history to your ad experience across platforms. The update makes this connection explicit in the text.

Users have options if they want to avoid this. You can choose which apps to disconnect from Search’s Personal Intelligence features. You can also disable Personalized Recommendations entirely. This is done via the Search Services Personalization settings page. You control which services can access your data. If you turn off these features, Google will not use that specific data for ads. The choice remains with the user. You must actively manage your settings to keep your data separate.

The change takes effect for new and existing users. It reflects a broader shift in how tech companies handle data. Personalization often requires access to personal files. Google is now making the trade-off clear. If you want smarter AI answers, you may get more targeted ads. The company has provided a path to opt out. Users should review their settings to see if they have enabled Personal Intelligence. This ensures their data is used only as they intend.