Recently, Google has introduced new features in Gmail that allow the service to access users’ private emails and attachments for AI training purposes. This change has been implemented without explicit consent, raising concerns about user privacy. Users might now find that their accounts have been automatically opted in for this program.
Understanding Google’s AI Training in Gmail
The primary aim of this shift is to enhance Gmail with features powered by Google’s Gemini AI. This technology is designed to make email writing faster and inbox management more efficient. However, much of this improvement relies on real email data, including personal messages and attachments.
Although Google assures users that it implements strong privacy measures—such as anonymization—many individuals handling sensitive information may still feel uneasy about this data usage. While these AI features aim to create a more personalized user experience, the absence of explicit consent raises serious concerns.
How to Opt Out of AI Training
If you prefer not to participate in this program, you can opt out by adjusting your settings in two areas. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Step 1: Disable Smart Features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet
- Open Gmail on your desktop or mobile app.
- Click the gear icon or navigate to Menu and then Settings.
- Scroll to find the “Smart Features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet” section and uncheck this option.
- Save the changes, especially on desktop.
- Step 2: Turn Off Google Workspace Smart Features
- Still under Settings, locate “Google Workspace Smart Features.”
- Click “Manage Workspace smart feature settings.”
- Turn off both Smart features in Google Workspace and in other Google products.
- Ensure you save your changes on this screen.
- Step 3: Confirm Your Settings
- Verify that both toggles remain off.
- Refresh your Gmail app or log out and log back in to ensure the modifications take effect.
Why It Matters
It’s essential to note that Google distinguishes between “Workspace” smart features and those utilized across other Google apps, necessitating changes in both areas to fully opt out of AI training. While Google has not made these settings universally available, checking your settings is crucial if privacy and control over your data matter to you.
For those who want to maintain their privacy online, using additional tools like Malwarebytes Privacy VPN can offer an extra layer of protection against unwanted data usage.
