Google adds a new Search history setting that can save media for AI

In short: Google is rolling out a new Google Search setting that can save your media uploads and recordings and use them to train its AI.

What happened

Google is rolling out a new account setting called Search Services History over the next few months. It changes what Google can store from your Google Search activity.

This is not just about what you type. Google says it may also save images, files, and audio or video recordings from how you use Search services. Examples include images used with Google Lens (Google’s visual search tool), voice searches, recordings from features like Translate speaking practice, and content you upload for reverse image searches.

WIRED reports that when it checked the setting, Search Services History was already turned on, and a box to Save media was also checked. Google spokesperson Davis Thompson told WIRED the settings can be turned on or off at any time, and that they help people revisit past searches, including visual and voice searches. The spokesperson did not answer WIRED’s question about why the feature could be on by default.

People who want to opt out can go to Google’s My Activity page at myactivity.google.com, open the Search Services History tab, turn the setting off, and delete saved activity. WIRED also notes it is important to uncheck Save media if you do not want uploaded images and other media used for AI training.

Google’s pop-up message says that if saved media is used to train its AI models, it is disconnected from your account, and the training data can be kept for up to 4 years, even if you delete the original activity.

Why it matters

This setting affects more than your search words. It can include personal media you upload or record, like a photo you use to identify an item (like handing a clerk a picture to ask what it is). If you care about limiting how your data is used for AI training, you may want to review the setting soon.

Source: Wired