If you use Google, you’re training its AI. Here’s how to opt out.

2026-07-06 · Source: TechCrunch · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Google recently updated its privacy settings for Search services, now storing user-uploaded media like images, files, and audio/video recordings. This data is used to enhance its AI models. Announced in June via customer email, this change effectively opts users into expanded AI training unless they manually opt out. The update applies across Google services such as Maps, Shopping, Flights, Hotels, Translate, News, Google Lens, and Search Live. This means visual searches or voice inputs can now be saved for AI training. This reflects a wider industry trend, with companies like Meta also collecting user-generated data for AI development. Google confirms this use, stating saved media improves services and AI models. Users can adjust preferences on the "Search Services History" and "Search Services Personalization" pages. Specifically, they can uncheck the "Save Media" box and configure data retention periods (three, 18, or 36 months).

Key takeaway

For privacy-conscious individuals using Google Search services, you should immediately review your "Search Services History" settings. Google now defaults to using your uploaded media for AI training, including images and audio, across services like Maps and Translate. To prevent this, uncheck the "Save Media" option. Also, configure automatic data deletion to three months. This ensures your personal media does not contribute to Google's AI model development without your explicit consent. It helps maintain greater control over your digital footprint.

Key insights

Google now uses user-uploaded media from Search services for AI training by default, requiring users to opt out via privacy settings.

Principles

• Opt-out consent is becoming standard for AI data collection.
• User-generated media is a key resource for AI model training.
• Data retention policies impact privacy and model development.

Method

Users can opt out by navigating to "Search Services History" settings, unchecking "Save Media," and setting automatic deletion for data after three, 18, or 36 months.

In practice

• Check Google's "Search Services History" settings.
• Uncheck "Save Media" to prevent AI training.
• Configure data auto-deletion for privacy.

Topics

• Google Privacy Settings
• AI Model Training
• User Data Collection
• Media Privacy
• Opt-out Mechanisms
• Digital Footprint

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, General Interest, AI Ethicist, Legal Professional

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by TechCrunch.