WhatsApp conversations can be accessed by Gemini, even with activity turned off. Learn how to disable this feature below.
In the digital age, maintaining privacy is of utmost importance, especially when it comes to personal data. Recently, Google's AI chatbot, Gemini, has been updated to interact with apps like Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities on Android phones, starting July 7 [1]. This update has raised privacy concerns as it allows Gemini to access personal data across messaging apps, including WhatsApp chats, without users opting in [2]. However, there are steps you can take to significantly restrict Gemini's access to your personal data on Android devices.
Firstly, disabling the Gemini app entirely can be achieved by going to *Settings > Apps* on your Android device, finding and selecting *Gemini*, and tapping *Disable* [1]. This stops Gemini from running or accessing your data but does not remove it from your device [1].
Secondly, you can limit Gemini's access to other apps by opening the Gemini app, tapping the profile icon (top right corner), going to the *Apps* section, and toggling off app extensions to block Gemini from reading data from apps like WhatsApp or Messages [1][4]. This limits Gemini’s integration with other apps but won't eliminate all data collection entirely [1][4].
Thirdly, turning off Gemini app activity tracking can be done by going to *Profile > Gemini Apps Activity* within the Gemini app and switching off this setting [3]. This prevents Gemini from saving your prompts and using them to train Google’s AI long-term. However, Google still retains your data for up to 72 hours for service operation and safety [1][3].
Lastly, removing Gemini as your default digital assistant can be done by going to *Settings*, searching for *Digital Assistant* or *Assistant* settings, setting the default assistant to *None* or another option besides Google Gemini, and disabling the digital assistant from Google entirely in *Settings > Google > All Services > Search, Assistant & Voice* [2].
It is essential to note that even after these steps, Google may retain your activity data for up to 72 hours for feedback and safety purposes [1][3]. Also, disabling or limiting Gemini reduces data collection but does not guarantee absolute privacy or data deletion from Google’s servers, as some data retention is part of Google’s operational policy [1][3].
For those concerned about the lack of precise controls and transparency in the update, it is recommended to stay informed about any updates and changes to Gemini's privacy settings. Users can also consider making data deletion requests through their Google Account settings for comprehensive privacy management.
References: [1] Google Support. (n.d.). Gemini Apps Activity. Retrieved from https://support.google.com/googleapp/answer/10404588 [2] Google Support. (n.d.). Digital Assistant on your Android device. Retrieved from https://support.google.com/googleapp/answer/9467436 [3] Google Support. (n.d.). Delete or pause your Google activity. Retrieved from https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/3024190 [4] Google Support. (n.d.). App permissions. Retrieved from https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-apps/answer/6035616
This article was written by Himani Jha, a tech news writer at our platform, contributing to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. In her free time, Himani enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music.
Smartphones, being the primary devices for many, are increasingly vulnerable to privacy breaches due to technology advancements and updates like Google's AI chatbot, Gemini, interacting with various apps. To mitigate privacy concerns, users can take steps such as disabling the Gemini app, limiting its access to other apps, turning off its activity tracking, and removing it as the default digital assistant.
