Policy·October 23, 2026 at 12:52 PM EDT·4 sources
Now Google says it might use your Gmail and Google Photos data to target ads
Outlets covering it4 in 24 hours
Oct 23, 4 PMOct 24, 5 PM
What happened
- Google updated its privacy policy to clarify that data from connected Gmail, Drive, and Photos accounts may be used for personalized ads.
- The exception applies when users share data through Google’s Personal Intelligence AI features.
- The policy change could expand the data available for ad targeting beyond Google’s previous stated restrictions.
Policy change effective
Oct. 16
Why it matters
The change matters to technology and policy professionals because it may affect user-consent expectations, advertising data practices, and regulatory scrutiny of AI-connected services.
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Timeline
- First reported by The VergeOct 23Now Google says it might use your Gmail and Google Photos data to target ads
- Ars Technica reportsOct 23Updated Google privacy policy says your Gmail might be used for advertising
- Techmeme reportsYesterdayGoogle updates its privacy policy to clarify it could use data shared via Personal Intelligence from connected apps, including Gmail and Photos, to target ads (Shimul Sood/Android Authority)
- Decrypt reportsYesterdayGoogle Quietly Updates Privacy Policy to Let Gmail and Photos Data Feed Ads
Who is involved
Now Google says it might use your Gmail and Google Photos dat…GoogleAndroid Authority
Company
Sources (4)
- The VergeOct 23Now Google says it might use your Gmail and Google Photos data to target ads
- Ars TechnicaOct 23Updated Google privacy policy says your Gmail might be used for advertising
- TechmemeYesterdayGoogle updates its privacy policy to clarify it could use data shared via Personal Intelligence from connected apps, including Gmail and Photos, to target ads (Shimul Sood/Android Authority)
- DecryptYesterdayGoogle Quietly Updates Privacy Policy to Let Gmail and Photos Data Feed Ads
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