Google links Personal Intelligence to file-based ad targeting

Google has altered its privacy terms to permit ad targeting based on the contents of Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive for a specific group of users. The change creates an exception to the company's previous stance, which generally forbade using data from those services for personalized advertising. This shift affects individuals who have linked their personal accounts to Google's AI tools.

For years, Google maintained a policy stating it would not use data from Drive, Gmail, or Photos to build ad profiles. That rule stood without qualification until October 16. On that date, the company added a new clause to its privacy policy. The text now states the commitment holds only if the user does not make data from these services available to other Google services that support personalized ads.

The revision applies to users who have activated the Personal Intelligence feature. This tool connects Drive, Gmail, and Photos to AI Mode and other Search tools. The connection allows these applications to access personal content to provide tailored answers. Under the new terms, that same data sharing also enables advertisers to target users based on the specific content in their personal files.

Google has outlined restrictions on how this data is used. Advertisers do not receive direct access to a user's files or personally identifying information like names or email addresses. The company also says it will exclude sensitive categories from targeting. These excluded categories include race, sexual orientation, religion, and health.

The policy text explains that users may allow services like Search or Gemini Apps to reach data from products like Photos and Workspace apps. The goal is to provide a more personalized experience. The document notes that Search may process permitted data to personalize content, including ads. It offers an example where a search for mountain bikes could lead to sports equipment ads on YouTube.

Users who wish to exclude their personal data from ad targeting have two primary options. They can disconnect specific apps from Search's Personal Intelligence features. Alternatively, they can switch off Personalized Recommendations entirely through the Search Services Personalization settings page. These controls allow users to manage the flow of data between their personal files and Google's advertising systems.

The policy change was first identified by Android Authority. The update represents a distinct shift in how Google defines the boundary between personal utility and commercial use of user data. The new terms take effect for users who have already linked their accounts to the AI features.