Google Ties Personal File Contents to Ad Targeting for AI Users

Google updated its privacy policy to permit ad targeting based on the contents of user files in Gmail, Drive, and Google Photos.

The revision, identified by Android Authority, creates an exception to the company's previous guarantee that it would not use data from these services for personalized advertising.

Prior to the change, the policy stated plainly that Google would not use such data. Since October 16, the text includes a qualifier stating the commitment holds unless users choose to make their data available to other Google services that support personalized ads.

This change primarily affects users who have linked their files to AI Mode and other Search tools via the Personal Intelligence feature. This connection allows the tools to access personal content for tailored answers. Under the new terms, that same access enables advertisers to target users using that specific content.

Google states that advertisers do not receive direct access to the files or personally identifying details like names or email addresses. The company also says it will not target ads based on sensitive categories such as race, sexual orientation, religion, or health.

The policy text explains that users may allow services like Search or Gemini Apps to reach data from other products to provide a more personalized experience. It notes that Search may process permitted data to personalize content, including ads. An example in the document illustrates that a user searching for mountain bikes might later see sports equipment ads on YouTube.

Users can opt out of this targeting by disconnecting specific apps from Personal Intelligence features or by switching off Personalized Recommendations in the Search Services Personalization settings page.