Google is rolling out a new privacy setting for its Search services. The "Search Services History" feature now has a "Save Media" option that, when enabled, allows Google to save data from your interactions.
This includes images uploaded to Google Lens, voice searches, files, and audio from features like Translate. Google states this saved media can be used to develop and improve its AI models and technologies.
The update is significant because data used for AI training may be kept for up to four years, even if the user later deletes the original activity from their account.
Users can check their settings at myactivity.google.com. To prevent future media from being used for AI training, uncheck the "Save Media" box within the Search Services History section. Reviewing and deleting older activity is also recommended.