Google allows AI Mode to use Gmail and Drive data for ads
An October 16 policy update permits ad targeting based on personal files for users who connect those services to Search tools.
By Petra Murphy ·
Google revised its privacy policy on October 16 to permit ad targeting based on the contents of Gmail, Drive, and Google Photos for specific users. The change creates an exception to the company's previous blanket rule that it would not use data from those services for personalized advertising.
The updated text now states that the commitment not to use this data holds only "unless you choose to make data from these services available to other Google services that support personalized ads." This modification primarily affects individuals who have linked their personal accounts to AI Mode and other Search tools via the Personal Intelligence feature.
By connecting these services, users allow Search tools to draw on their own content to provide tailored answers and recommendations. Under the new terms, this same data sharing enables Google to target ads using that personal content. The policy specifies that Search and Gemini Apps may reach data from other products, including Workspace apps, to provide a more personalized experience subject to current settings.
Google has outlined several limits to this new practice. Advertisers do not receive direct access to a user's files or personally identifying details such as names or email addresses. The company also stated it will not display ads based on sensitive categories, which include race, sexual orientation, religion, or health information.
The policy text illustrates how this personalization works in practice. It notes that if a user searches for mountain bikes, they might later see ads for sports equipment on YouTube. The company explains that depending on user settings, it may show personalized ads based on interests, activity, or personalized content from its own services.
Users who wish to keep their personal data out of ad targeting have two main options. They can select which apps to disconnect from Search's Personal Intelligence features. Alternatively, they can switch off Personalized Recommendations entirely through the Search Services Personalization settings page.
