Google recently rolled out settings that allow Gmail content to power some AI features. Some reports say the change is opting out by default for many users. Security writers and tech sites are urging people to check two separate settings in Gmail and in Workspace so their emails and attachments are not used for model training.
How Smart Features Work
Google groups features such as Smart Compose AI summaries and some Workspace assistants under Smart Features. Those features can use content from your Gmail to personalise replies and summaries. Google has a support page that explains the two layers of settings. One control sits in Gmail settings. The other sits in the Workspace smart features management page.
Reports from security sites say the settings can be confusing. One article shows that turning off the first Gmail checkbox does not always stop the Workspace level features. That is why several outlets recommend doing both steps. Google has said it will not use content for model training in some regions by default and it says Smart Features have long been available. Independent coverage recommends reviewing the controls now.
How to Turn Off
Open Gmail on desktop. Click the gear icon. Click See all settings. Scroll until you find the Smart Features section. Uncheck the box named Turn on smart features in Gmail Chat and Meet. Click Save changes.
Open Gmail again. Click the gear icon. Click See all settings. Scroll to Manage Workspace smart feature settings. Click that button. Toggle off Smart features in Google Workspace. Toggle off Smart features in other Google products if shown. Save changes if prompted. If you use a work account, your admin may set defaults for your organisation.
Many guides show the same two step routine. If you prefer a visual walkthrough search for a short video or screen guide from a reputable tech site. Several reports include screenshots and step by step images to make this simple for non technical users.
Who Is Affected
Google says the smart defaults differ by country. Users in the European Economic Area the United Kingdom Japan and Switzerland often find these features off by default because of local privacy rules. Many other users see the features on by default. If you are in doubt check both Gmail and Workspace settings now.
What The Debate Means
Some sites claim Gmail content may be used to train models unless users opt out. Google has replied in public statements and said that smart features are about direct personalization and that training policies have not changed for many accounts. The back and forth shows that users worried about privacy should act now. If you handle sensitive data, such as health or finance documents you may want to turn off these features until you have clarity from Google for your account type.
