Google has introduced a new control option within Google Search settings to give users more authority over how their uploaded images and files are stored and utilized. According to a report by Asharq Al-Awsat, this update allows individuals to manage whether their uploaded media is used to train artificial intelligence models.
The update covers various apps and search-related services including Search, Maps, Shopping, Flights, Hotels, Translate, and News. Google plans to roll out these changes gradually over the coming months.
Managing Uploaded Media in Google Search settings
Users frequently upload files, images, voice recordings, and short videos to obtain quick search results. Under the updated Google Search settings, users can choose to prevent the platform from saving these media files to their account history.
When enabled, these files are used to improve search services and develop machine learning technologies. This includes tools like Google Lens, Google Translate, and voice search capabilities.
Risks of Unintentional Data Sharing
Many users interact with search tools to complete daily tasks such as translating documents or analyzing screenshots. Consequently, sensitive business documents, customer invoices, or personal details may be uploaded without proper caution.
This ease of data transfer poses cybersecurity and privacy risks for both individuals and corporate entities. Organizations must establish clear guidelines regarding what types of data employees can upload to public search tools.
Steps to Disable Media Saving
To stop the platform from saving new media, users must access their personal account dashboard. Specifically, they need to visit the “My Google Activity” page and select “Search Services History.”
From there, users can uncheck the “Save Media” option to prevent future uploads from being stored. However, this action does not automatically delete previously saved files from the account.
Limitations of the New Privacy Control
The new option does not apply to other company services such as Gemini, Google Voice, NotebookLM, or YouTube. Furthermore, text search history and transcripts of voice interactions will continue to be saved.
Google stated that it removes personal identifiers before using data for AI training. Additionally, the company retains anonymized training data for up to four years, even after the user disables the setting.
The company also noted that human reviewers may inspect certain media files to improve system accuracy. However, Google will request explicit user permission before sharing any uploaded media with external contractors.
