Google’s latest Search history update allows the company to store media uploads—such as images used in reverse image searches—for training its AI models. If you’re concerned about your data being used in this way, here’s how to opt out.
What’s Changing in 2026?
As of June 2026, Google has expanded its Search data collection to include media files you interact with, like photos uploaded for reverse image searches. These uploads may now be retained and used to improve Google’s AI models, including image recognition and generative AI tools. This update builds on Google’s broader push to leverage user data for artificial intelligence development.
How to Opt Out
- Sign in to your Google Account on a desktop or mobile browser.
- Go to My Activity (myactivity.google.com).
- Click on Activity controls from the left-hand menu (or the menu icon if on mobile).
- Under Web & App Activity, toggle off the setting labeled “Include Chrome history and activity from sites, apps, and devices that use Google services.” Note: This may affect personalization features.
- For media-specific opt-out: In Web & App Activity, click Manage all Web & App Activity. Then, select Auto-delete (off by default) and choose a retention period—or manually delete past activity by clicking Delete activity by and selecting All time.
- To specifically target image uploads: In My Activity, use the filter bar to select “Images” and manually delete any you wish to remove.
Tip: Disabling Web & App Activity stops Google from saving future searches and uploads, but previously stored data remains unless you manually delete it.
Why This Matters
Google frames this as a way to improve its AI services, but privacy advocates warn it escalates data collection without explicit user consent. As of 2026, similar practices are under scrutiny by regulators in the EU and US. Opting out is straightforward, but requires active steps—Google does not notify users of this change.
Final Thoughts
While Google offers an opt-out, the setting is tucked away in menus. Regularly review your Google Activity controls to stay on top of data usage. For maximum privacy, consider using Google Search without an account or switching to a privacy-focused search engine.
via Wired AI