Google informs users that AI system Gemini will gain access to external apps, such as WhatsApp. Blocking this access is not straightforward.
Google is giving Gemini more access to users’ phones. This is evident from a message the company is sending out to Android users, at least in the US. It’s unclear if and when the change will also come to the EU. Several major privacy concerns are likely standing in the way.
Automatic and Far-Reaching
Google is indeed giving Gemini access to apps, tools, and messages on Android phones, even when users have disabled Gemini Apps Activity. The rollout automatically started on July 7.
The rollout is reminiscent of an earlier change made by Meta. Through its apps, Meta wants to look at all the photos you have on your device.
Google’s functionality has more utility, including for users. Gemini could indeed interact with other apps on your device, potentially making the AI assistant more useful.
Unsolicited linkage
Like Microsoft or Meta, Google never asks if users actually want all this intrusive AI-driven functionality. Removing Gemini from a recent Android device is virtually impossible for ordinary users. The best you can do is disable the Gemini app from your device settings and hope that’s enough to break the link between the AI tool and your private data.
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Microsoft and Google ram AI down your throat (and make you pay for it)
For now, there are no indications that Gemini’s far-reaching access is being automatically rolled out in the EU as well. However, the plans show (once again) what the ambition of Google and its peers is. They are ramming AI down everyone’s throat unsolicited, using their strong market position in an attempt to gain even more access to user data.