Google updates policy and may use Gmail and Google Photos data for targeted ads
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Google updated its privacy policy on October 16 to add an exception to its promise not to use Drive, Gmail and Google Photos data for personalized ads. The change, identified by Android Authority and reported by The Verge, may affect users who connect those services to AI Mode and other Search tools through the Personal Intelligence feature, which uses the data to provide more personalized responses and recommendations.
Under the policy, Search may process authorized data to personalize content, including ads. Advertisers do not receive access to information from those services or personally identifying details, and Google says it will not show ads based on sensitive categories such as race, sexual orientation, religion or health. Users can disconnect apps from Personal Intelligence or disable personalized recommendations entirely in Search Services personalization settings.
Why it matters · editorial interpretation
The change could broaden the use of authorized Gmail, Drive and Google Photos data to personalize ads when those services are connected to Personal Intelligence. Although Google says advertisers do not receive this data and sensitive categories are excluded, users may need to review their connections and personalization settings.
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