Google users are growing wary of AI features in Chrome, especially after a 4GB AI model was silently downloaded. The controversy deepened with Chrome 148, where Google removed wording that promised no data would be sent to its servers. The change alarmed users who rely on local AI for privacy.
Google insists the wording update was for clarity, not a policy shift. A spokesperson stated data remains processed solely on device. However, the company acknowledged that when websites use Chrome's AI API, the site may see inputs and outputs, and if it's a Google site, data could reach Google's servers. For non-Google sites, Google claims no data visibility. Users are advised to check privacy policies as AI becomes an opt-out service.