Google Has Its Eye on Your Photos and Voice Data—Here’s How to Protect Your Privacy

Google Data Collection: Google has long collected significant user data through "Web & App Activity," but now it requires even more. The company intends to gather additional data specifically for AI training purposes.

Google Data Collection: Google already collects a vast amount of user data, yet it is not satisfied with the current scope. The company now requires more data related to you for its AI systems. Google will no longer limit data collection to typed search queries; it is also targeting your images, voice recordings, and other uploaded media. While Google claims this new data collection feature aims to enhance search and AI experiences, experts have raised concerns regarding privacy.

Which Google feature is causing a stir?

According to media reports, Google is introducing a new "Search Service History" setting for Google accounts. Once enabled, this feature allows Google to save data from Google Lens, Live Search, Google Translate speaking practice, voice searches, and other uploaded content. Google stated that the saved media would include user images, files, and audio/video recordings from interactions with search services. The company is notifying users that, alongside "Web & App Activity," media used during search interactions will also be stored. Simply put, this means the company will store more user data than before.

Why does Google need this data?

It is not just Google; other AI companies also require diverse types of data to train their AI models. Models can understand the real world more effectively through images, videos, and voice recordings rather than relying solely on text. This is why companies are now seeking to collect all forms of data. Since Google possesses a larger user base than other companies, it holds an advantage in this regard. Billions of people use its services daily, giving it access to a vast dataset.

How can you prevent Google from collecting your data?

If you do not want Google to use your data for AI training, you need to make a few changes to your settings. To do this, first open "Google My Activity." Select the search services history option and uncheck the box for saving media. Once this is done, Google will no longer be able to collect media associated with its search services.