Google has responded to widespread concerns sparked by social media posts and articles, such as one from Malwarebytes, which suggested that the tech giant altered its policy regarding the use of Gmail messages and attachments for training AI models. The reports claimed that the only way for users to opt out was by disabling “smart features,” including spell checking.
Jenny Thomson, a spokesperson for Google, clarified that these reports are misleading. She emphasized that there has been no change to user settings and that Gmail Smart Features, which have been available for years, do not involve using Gmail content to train the Gemini AI model.
However, users are advised to review their settings, as a staff member from The Verge noted being unintentionally opted back into some features after previously opting out. Earlier this year, Google revised its smart feature personalization settings, allowing users to independently disable features across different Google products, such as Google Workspace, Maps, and Wallet.
Keeping smart features turned on not only helps with tasks like spell checking but also includes functionalities like tracking orders and syncing flight details from Gmail directly to the calendar. While the settings page for Google Workspace states that users agree to let Google use their activity for personalization, Google insists this does not equate to using the content of emails for training AI.
Overall, Google’s clear communication aims to alleviate concerns about user data privacy while offering valuable features that enhance productivity and overall user experience. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, coping with changes and understanding privacy settings remains crucial for users navigating these integrated platforms.