Google Updates Policy to Allow Ad Targeting Based on Gmail and Photos

Google has changed its privacy rules to allow targeted advertising based on user data from Gmail and Google Photos. This shift affects anyone who uses personalized AI tools. The update was first noticed by the tech site Android Authority. It changes how Google handles information that users previously thought was kept separate from ad systems.

The specific change happened on October 16th. Google added a new exception to its old promises. Previously, the company stated it would not use data from Drive, Gmail, or Google Photos for personalized ads. Now, there is a caveat. The policy says Google will not use this data unless you choose to make it available to other services that support personalized ads.

This matters for users who have connected their accounts to AI Mode and other Search tools. This connection is part of a feature called Personal Intelligence. It allows Google to provide better responses by knowing more about you. If you enabled this, your data is now open to be used for ad targeting. Sharing data for better AI recommendations also means opening it up for more personalized ads.

Google clarifies that advertisers do not get full access to your files. They cannot see your name or email address directly. They also do not see the actual content of your emails or photos. Furthermore, Google says it will not show ads based on sensitive categories. These categories include race, sexual orientation, religion, or health conditions.

The new policy text explains the process clearly. It states that you may allow services like Search or Gemini Apps to access data from other services. This includes Google Photos and Workspace apps like Gmail and Drive. The goal is to provide a more personalized experience. For example, if you search for mountain bikes, Search may process your allowed data to show you ads for sports equipment on YouTube.

Users who want to stop this practice have options. You can choose which apps to disconnect from Search’s Personal Intelligence features. This prevents those specific data sources from being used for ads. Alternatively, you can disable Personalized Recommendations entirely. To do this, visit the Search Services Personalization settings page. There, you can adjust your preferences to keep your data out of the ad system.

This update reflects a broader trend in tech. Companies are linking AI capabilities with advertising revenue. Users must now read privacy policies more carefully. What used to be a simple promise of separation is now a choice. That choice determines whether your personal data helps power both your AI experience and the ads you see online.