Tech
Google Unveils Major Gemini AI Enhancements: New Features, Privacy Controls, and Multilingual Support
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA — Google has announced a significant update to its Gemini AI platform, introducing advanced conversational tools, expanded language capabilities, and tighter privacy controls. The rollout, detailed in a mandatory service email to users, underscores Google’s push to make Gemini a more dynamic and privacy-conscious AI assistant. Here’s what you need to know.
Next-Level Conversations with Gemini Live
The standout addition is Gemini Live, a feature enabling fluid voice interactions on mobile devices. Leveraging Google’s latest AI model, Live now supports multiple languages, dialects, and accents within a single chat session, addressing global user needs. It also integrates real-time translation, positioning Gemini as a competitor to AI tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT Voice.
Upcoming Features:
- Screen Sharing: Users will soon collaborate with Gemini by sharing their screens for troubleshooting or guided tasks.
- Live Video Streaming: Real-time video interactions are slated for release in the coming months, though availability may vary by region.
Privacy Overhaul: Data Retention and Human Review
Google’s update emphasizes transparency in data handling, detailed in the revised Gemini Apps Privacy Hub (last updated February 12, 2025). Key points include:
- Activity Controls:
- Default Settings: Gemini Apps Activity is auto-enabled for users 18+, storing conversations, location data, and feedback for up to 18 months (adjustable to 3 or 36 months).
- Under-18 Users: Activity is opt-in, with generated image features blocked for minors.
- Human Review:
- To refine AI accuracy, human reviewers analyze anonymized conversations. Google disconnects data from user accounts before review but warns against sharing sensitive information.
- Reviewed data is retained for up to three years, unaffected by user deletion requests.
- Temporary Storage:
- Even with Activity turned off, conversations are stored for 72 hours to “process feedback,” though not visible in user logs.
User Control and Regional Compliance
Google has streamlined data management tools:
- Delete Activity: Users can erase specific interactions or bulk-delete by hour, day, or custom range.
- Auto-Delete: Set retention to 3, 18, or 36 months, or disable auto-deletion entirely.
- Regional Policies: EU and Swiss users are served by Google Ireland Limited, adhering to stricter GDPR standards. Korean users must accept localized Location Terms.
Critical Note: Gemini Live audio recordings aren’t currently used for AI training, though transcripts are. Google pledges transparency if this changes.
Integration with Google Ecosystem
Gemini deepens ties with Google Assistant, accessing contacts, call logs, and device permissions for tasks like smart home control. However:
- “Hey Google” Sensitivity: Accidental activations may occur, treated as standard queries.
- Professional Advice Disclaimer: Google cautions against relying on Gemini for medical, legal, or financial guidance, citing potential inaccuracies in its evolving AI.
Expert Insights
Privacy advocates have mixed reactions. Dr. Elena Torres, AI Ethics Researcher at Stanford, notes: “While Google’s anonymization efforts are commendable, the three-year retention of reviewed data raises concerns. Users must weigh convenience against privacy.”
Tech analyst Mark Chen praises the multilingual support: “Gemini’s ability to navigate dialects in real-time could redefine global accessibility, but success hinges on cultural nuance.”
Looking Ahead
For Gemini, Google plans tighter third-party service integration (e.g., WhatsApp messaging via Assistant history) and expanded device compatibility. Users are encouraged to review settings at myactivity.google.com/product/gemini.
Gemini’s update balances innovation with heightened user control, yet underscores the perennial trade-off in AI: smarter tools demand deeper data trust.
