Google's New AI Feature-How To Turn It Off

Key Points:

• Google has introduced a new “Search Services History” setting that saves images, audio, video, and search activity to train its AI models and personalize user experiences, including recommendations and ads.
• Users can manage this setting by visiting their Google account activity controls, with the option to turn off the feature or delete specific activity; it is rolling out gradually and will default to off for those who have opted out of “Web & App Activity” tracking.
• Privacy experts, like Calli Schroeder from the Electronic Privacy Information Center, warn that storing sensitive media and biometric data with Google poses privacy risks and could potentially be used by law enforcement.
• Google states the saved history is intended to improve user experience by enabling easier recall of past searches and personalized content but denies that the data is used for biometric purposes or price discrimination.
• Users are encouraged to regularly review their Google privacy settings, including turning off personalized recommendations, to avoid overly narrow algorithmic predictions and maintain control over their data and ad targeting.