Key facts
- Google's privacy settings now allow users to opt out of using their uploaded media for AI training.
- The update enables Google to store images, files, and audio/video recordings for AI model development.
- This change affects multiple Google services, including Search, Maps, and Translate.
- Users can manage data retention periods, choosing deletion after 3, 18, or 36 months.
- Web & App Activity settings have been separated from Search data settings.
Google has updated its privacy settings, allowing users to opt out of having their uploaded media, such as images, files, and audio or video recordings, used to train its artificial intelligence models. This change, announced via email in June, essentially opted users into expanded AI training by default, framing it as an enhancement to user control over saved history and personalized recommendations.