Google AI: Your data trains its models. Here's how to opt out.

Google, with a rather quiet update, has expanded its right to use your online activities. It can now take your data from services like Search, Maps, and YouTube to train its artificial intelligence models. For many, this isn't an option, it's the default setting.

Yes, you heard that right. If you use Google, your data is already acting as a training ground for Bard, Gemini, and who knows what other future AIs. This change to Google's privacy settings became effective on July 6, 2024. A nice boost for them, a little less for your privacy.

It's not entirely new for companies to use data. The difference now is the broader scope and, crucially, that opting out isn't always intuitive. Many users don't even know this option exists or has been modified.

Practically anyone with a Google account who uses its services is affected. To stop this data collection, you need to go into your Google account settings and turn off the "Web & App Activity" option. That's where the fate of your data is decided.

Head over to myactivity.google.com, then look for "Web & App Activity" in the side menu. There you'll find a toggle to disable the recording of your activities. Make sure to also uncheck the box that allows inclusion of voice and audio activity. A couple of clicks and you're (relatively) safer.

Remember that turning off this feature doesn't stop all of Google's data collection, but it significantly limits what's used for AI training. It's a small step for you, a big blow to those who wanted your data for free. Pay attention, because sometimes settings "reactivate" after updates.