Google privacy policy lets Gmail, Drive, Photos data feed ads
The update took effect October 16, 2026 and adds an exception when users enable the opt-in Personal Intelligence feature.
Google has updated its privacy policy to allow data from Gmail, Drive and Photos to be used for personalized ads. The change took effect on October 16, 2026, according to 9to5google.com.
The previous policy stated that personalized ads were not based on content from Drive, Gmail or Photos. The new text adds an exception when users make data from those services available to other Google services that support personalized ads.
That exception is tied to enabling Personal Intelligence, a feature users must opt in to. Search may also process data users allow it to access in order to personalize content, including ads.
Google said advertisers will not see personally identifying details such as a user's name and email address without permission.
Personal Intelligence context
Personal Intelligence began rolling out in beta at the start of 2026, letting Gemini share data between apps such as Gmail, Photos, Search and Drive.
Quick answers
When did Google's privacy policy change take effect?
The updated policy took effect on October 16, 2026.
Does the change apply to everyone?
No. The exception for Gmail, Drive and Photos data is tied to enabling Personal Intelligence, which is opt-in.
Will advertisers see my name and email address?
Google says advertisers will not see personally identifying details such as name and email address without user permission.