AI & Models
Google’s AI Mode now accesses Gmail and Photos for users
Google is integrating "Personal Intelligence" into its AI Mode, allowing subscribers in the U.S. to receive tailored responses based on their Gmail and Google Photos data.
Google announced on Thursday that it is bringing its “Personal Intelligence” feature to AI Mode, Google’s conversational search feature. The update allows AI Mode to access a user’s Gmail and Google Photos to provide individualized responses. This rollout follows the debut of Personal Intelligence last week in the Gemini app, where the feature first connected across Google services like Gmail, Photos, Search, and YouTube history to allow the AI assistant to tailor its responses. The new integration is currently rolling out to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra subscribers in English in the U.S.
The update is designed to generate highly tailored recommendations for activities like shopping and travel planning without requiring users to repeatedly explain their preferences. Robby Stein, VP of Product, Google Search, explained that with Personal Intelligence, recommendations do not just match a user’s interests but instead fit seamlessly into their life. He noted that users do not have to constantly explain their preferences or existing plans, as the system selects recommendations specifically for them from the start. For example, if a user is planning a trip, AI Mode can reference flight confirmations in Gmail and past travel photos to suggest specific itineraries. Stein noted that Personal Intelligence can also be particularly helpful for shopping, because AI Mode considers the types of items you buy and where you shop.
Stein further detailed how the feature functions: “If you need a new coat for your upcoming trip, AI Mode could automatically take into account the brands you prefer, as well as your flight confirmation in Gmail to identify the destination and timing (Chicago in March). You’ll get suggestions for windproof, versatile coats that fit the weather and your preferred look. It’s like a personal shopper who already knows your itinerary and the vibe you’re going for.”
To address potential privacy concerns, Google clarified that AI Mode does not train directly on a user’s Gmail inbox or Google Photos library. Instead, the model trains on the specific prompts submitted by the user and the corresponding responses generated during the interaction. Users can also choose to turn the Personal Intelligence feature on or off at any time.
Why it matters
By integrating Personal Intelligence, Google is leveraging the wealth of user data already within its ecosystem to deliver personalized experiences that competitors cannot easily match, effectively deepening its product moat.