Contrary to recent reports, Google does not read your Gmail emails to train its Gemini AI models. In statements to The Verge and ZDNet, Google denied claims that email data is used for AI training. These claims had urged Gmail users to disable Smart Features in Gmail and Workspace to prevent Google from using their email content for Gemini training. Google also posted a denial on X, emphasizing the same points and stating a desire to “set the record straight on misleading reports.” According to Google, “the facts” are that Gmail settings haven’t changed, Smart Features in Gmail have existed for many years, and Gmail content is not used to train the Gemini AI model. Google reaffirmed its commitment to transparency whenever it updates terms and policies.
One report that may have spurred this controversy came from Malwarebytes, which described how to turn off Smart Features in Gmail and Workspace. The post initially suggested that Google had automatically opted users into allowing email data to be used for Gemini training. However, Malwarebytes updated its article to clarify that these settings are not new and acknowledged that the context “contributed to a perfect storm of misunderstanding.” The blog confirmed that Google does not use Gmail data to train its AI.
Smart Features in Gmail include options like Smart Compose, Smart Reply, Autocorrect, and grammar and spelling corrections. These features have been available long before AI products like Gemini emerged. Malwarebytes explained that the wording “Smart Features” may mislead users to assume AI usage, especially as Gemini integrates into other Google products. Additionally, a recent proposed class-action lawsuit in California alleges that Google secretly enabled Gemini AI features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet without user consent, a claim reported by Bloomberg.
If you prefer to disable Smart Features, Google provides options to do so in Gmail settings. First, under the General tab in Gmail settings (accessible via the gear icon), users can turn off the “Turn on Smart Features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet” option. Then, by clicking “Manage Workspace smart feature settings,” users can toggle off smart features in Workspace and other Google products to prevent the personalization of services using this data. ZDNet confirmed that these settings are enabled by default on some accounts, but that Google does not enable Smart Features without user consent, as evidenced by tests on multiple Gmail accounts.
