Google Expands Gemini's Memory, Tightens Privacy Settings
- Gemini can now automatically remember past conversations to personalise responses.
- Users can disable memory, use 'temporary chats', and manage data via updated 'Keep Activity' settings.
- Launching first on Gemini 2.5 Pro in select countries, with expansion to more regions and models coming soon.
Google is enhancing its Gemini AI chatbot with new memory and privacy features designed to personalise user interactions while giving greater control over data. The update allows Gemini to automatically remember past conversations and apply key details and preferences in future chats, building on last year’s manual memory feature.
For instance, if a user discussed launching a YouTube channel about Japanese culture, Gemini might later suggest related content ideas, such as exploring Japanese cuisine. The memory feature is enabled by default but can be turned off in the Gemini app under Personal Context by toggling 'Your past chats with Gemini'.
The rollout begins today for Gemini 2.5 Pro in select countries, with expansion to additional regions and the Gemini 2.5 Flash model planned in the coming months.
In addition to memory improvements, Google is introducing enhanced privacy controls. The 'Gemini Apps Activity' setting will be renamed 'Keep Activity' on September 2. When enabled, it allows Google to use a sample of file and photo uploads to improve services. Users who previously disabled the setting will remain opted out.
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Google is also launching 'temporary chats', which will not appear in recent conversations, will not be used for personalisation or AI training, and will be stored for only 72 hours. This option is aimed at sensitive queries or instances where users do not want Gemini to reference past discussions.
Google spokesperson Elijah Lawal emphasized that the company is balancing personalisation with user control. “Equally crucial is giving you easy controls to choose the experience that’s best for you”, Lawal said.
With these updates, Google aims to strengthen Gemini’s role as a personal AI assistant while addressing privacy concerns, offering users a more tailored yet secure conversational experience.
