Google Gemini Learns from Your Conversations, but There's a Catch
As Google continues to integrate its AI chatbot, Gemini, deeper into its ecosystem, significant changes are taking place in how the chatbot uses your data. Google has announced updates that will allow Gemini to better adapt to your conversations by remembering chat details for more tailored responses. For those concerned about privacy, a new temporary chat feature ensures these interactions do not impact Gemini's perception of you.
Previously, Google experimented with a personalization mode that utilized your search history to refine chatbot interactions. However, this feature didn't resonate with most users and was subsequently withdrawn. The new iteration, "Personal Context," aims to draw insights from past chats, adjusting responses accordingly. Google promises more relevant suggestions, especially for recommendations, while trying to mitigate potential risks of chatbots fostering delusional thinking.
Initially introduced in the Gemini 2.5 Pro model, Personal Context will not be available in the EU, UK, or Switzerland, and is restricted to users over 18. Google plans to expand this feature to additional regions and models, and you can enable or disable Personal Context from the settings menu.
Enhanced Data Control Features
With these personalization advancements, users might hesitate to discuss certain topics with Gemini. Fortunately, Google offers control over data usage through features like Temporary Chats, akin to a browser's incognito mode. This option, available on the Gemini app's main screen, ensures that chats won't be used to influence Personal Context, despite being stored for 72 hours for continuity.
As of September, Google will tweak its privacy settings, starting to use a sample of chat data (including uploaded files) to refine its AI, unless users opt-out. To maintain privacy, Google will update settings, giving users the choice to keep their data out of AI training or use Temporary Chats.
These developments, while offering potential benefits in AI interaction, also highlight the ongoing challenges in balancing personalization with privacy. It's crucial to stay informed and adjust settings proactively to maintain control over personal data.
