Google has responded to recent reports, including one by Malwarebytes, that disputed claims about Gmail’s policy changes regarding the use of users’ emails for training AI models. Google’s spokesperson, Jenny Thomson, clarified to The Verge that these reports were misleading.
According to Google, the company has not modified users’ settings, and the Gmail Smart Features have been in place for several years. Additionally, Google asserted that Gmail content is not used for training the Gemini AI model.
While Google has not made changes to users’ settings, the company advises users to review their personal settings. Some users reported being automatically opted back into Smart Features after attempting to opt out. Google updated its smart feature personalization settings in January, allowing users to control features for Google Workspace and other products independently.
Enabling Gmail’s smart features offers various functionalities, such as tracking orders and integrating flight details from emails to calendars. Google Workspace’s settings indicate content usage for personalization, but the company clarifies that this does not involve utilizing email content for AI training purposes.
Source: The Verge