Upcoming Gemini for Android Raises Significant Privacy Concerns

Google Gemini is a powerful AI chatbot that requires users to manually enable extensions, called Apps, on Android devices to enhance its functionality. These include services like Phone, Messages, and WhatsApp. However, a recent email from Google indicates that starting July 7, 2025, Gemini will automatically utilize these Apps regardless of whether the user has enabled Gemini App Activity. This means that Gemini can interact with messaging systems and change settings without explicit user consent, raising significant privacy concerns. Although having these features enabled by default enhances user experience by simplifying interactions, it allows Google to store user activities for up to 72 hours, even if App Activity is turned off. The email lacks clarity on how to opt out of these features, leading to potential confusion and privacy issues for users. Google has been contacted for further clarification on this controversial change.

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