When connected Gmail, Drive, and Photos can influence Google ads

Google’s October 16, 2026 privacy policy describes an exception to its rule about using Gmail, Drive, and Photos content for ads. If you make that content available to another Google service that supports personalized ads, information from it may influence the ads you see. Ars Technica reported on the policy change and how it relates to Personal Intelligence in Search. Read the Google Privacy Policy for the exact wording.

Check what you’ve connected

Open Search personalization settings while signed in. If your account shows connected content apps, review the list and disconnect any you no longer want Search to use. Check Gemini’s connected apps separately if you use Gemini.

Review history and ads separately

Disconnecting an app and deleting saved activity are separate steps. Use Google’s Search Services History instructions to review or delete activity. To review or turn off personalized ads, open My Ad Center.

If you’re thinking of switching email providers

Try a second address first. Check whether you can import old mail, receive recovery messages, and use the new inbox comfortably. See Proton Mail vs. Gmail for the practical trade-offs.