Google has announced a significant update to its Gemini Apps, introducing Temporary Chats and enhanced data control features to give users greater privacy and flexibility over their information. The rollout will begin over the next few days.
Temporary Chats for More Privacy
The new Temporary Chats feature allows users to start conversations with Gemini that are not used to personalize future interactions or train AI models. These chats will not appear in Recent Chats or Gemini Apps Activity. However, they will be stored for 72 hours to allow Gemini to respond and for safety purposes. After this period, they will be automatically deleted. This feature is ideal for those who want a one-off, privacy-focused conversation with Gemini.
Updated Data Handling for Uploads
In the coming weeks, Google will rename the Gemini Apps Activity setting to Keep Activity. When this setting is enabled, users can access their chat history in Recent Chats and resume conversations anytime. Starting September 2, certain uploads—such as files, videos, screenshots, and photos—may be used to improve Google services for everyone. To prevent this, users can simply turn off the Keep Activity option. All activity can be managed or deleted at any time, ensuring full control over personal data.
Control Over Gemini Audio and Live Recordings
Google is also adding a new setting to manage Gemini audio and Gemini Live recordings, which include microphone inputs, videos, and screenshares. This setting is turned off by default, but users can enable it if they wish to contribute to improving Google services.
Commitment to Privacy and Data Protection
Google emphasizes that when user activity is used to enhance services, human reviewers may be involved. However, all chats are disconnected from user accounts before review to protect privacy. The company’s privacy principles guide the development of technical safeguards, ensuring responsible data use.
For more information, users can refer to the Gemini Apps Privacy Notice, Gemini Apps Privacy Hub, and Google’s Generative AI Prohibited Use Policy.