Google Gemini Enhances Personalization with New Chat Learning Features
Google is continuously evolving its AI chatbot, Gemini, to better integrate with user data and provide more personalized interactions. Currently, Google has unveiled new capabilities for the AI, which allow it to remember more details from user conversations to improve the relevance of its responses. A temporary chat option is also available for users who prefer not to have their interactions stored long-term.
Initially introduced a few months ago, the 'personalization' feature in Gemini utilized users’ Google search history to tailor its replies. However, this feature was met with mixed reactions and was subsequently discontinued. Now, Google introduces a new customization tool known as Personal Context. This feature, when activated, enables Gemini to remember aspects of previous conversations, adjusting its feedback accordingly to produce more relatable results, especially when it comes to recommendations.
Personal Context differs from the previously available saved instructions feature, as it naturally adapts responses based on past chats without needing specific input. While some might find this more engaging, there are concerns about AI becoming too familiar, potentially causing misunderstandings or reinforcing wrong ideas.
Available with the Gemini 2.5 Pro model, this feature will not be available in the European Union, UK, or Switzerland initially, and it’s restricted to users over 18. Google plans to expand its availability to more regions and with support for the Gemini 2.5 Flash model in the future. Users can toggle the Personal Context on or off through the main settings menu.
Enhanced Privacy Controls
As Google enhances Gemini’s personalization capabilities, users might reconsider how much they want to engage with this AI assistant. Fortunately, Google provides options to opt-out, such as turning off Personal Context. Moreover, the new Temporary Chats feature offers a more private interaction mode, akin to an incognito mode that genuinely works by not using conversation data for Personal Context, even if enabled.
Temporary Chats are starting to roll out to users, activated by a dedicated button in the Gemini app. These chats aren’t entirely ephemeral; they remain on Google’s servers for up to 72 hours, allowing users to revisit and continue the conversation if desired.
Even the occasional Gemini user should take note of these updates as Google is adjusting how uploaded content in Gemini interactions, including chat logs and files, will be leveraged from September 2 onwards for AI training. Users who prefer not to contribute to AI models with their data must opt-out by adjusting the newly revised privacy settings titled 'Keep Activity'. This can be managed through the settings menu or by opting for Temporary Chats, ensuring data isn't used in development.
