Google policy change allows AI-linked personal data to shape ads
Google's revised privacy policy says data from Drive, Gmail, and Photos can be used for targeted advertising when users connect those services to AI-powered features such as AI Mode. Advertisers still do not receive the underlying content or identifying details, and Google says it will not target ads based on sensitive categories.
Google altered its privacy terms on October 16, adding a carve-out to an earlier commitment about Drive, Gmail, and Photos. The change was reported by Android Authority. Under the revised language, those services’ data may feed personalized advertising if a user links them to AI Mode or other Search features through Personal Intelligence.
The policy states that advertisers receive neither the underlying content nor identifiers such as names or email addresses. Google also says ads will not be based on sensitive topics including race, sexual orientation, religion, or health. Users can opt out by disconnecting apps from Search’s Personal Intelligence tools or turning off Personalized Recommendations in the Search Services Personalization settings.
The change may affect people who link personal accounts to AI search features, potentially making ads feel more tailored while raising privacy expectations. Because advertisers do not receive raw content or identifying details, direct exposure may be limited, but users could still perceive a shift in how their email and photos inform commercial messages. People who value separation between productivity tools and advertising may need to review settings, while others may accept the tradeoff for more useful AI responses.