Google announced on Thursday that AI Mode, its conversational Search feature, now integrates “Personal Intelligence” to deliver individualized responses by accessing Gmail and Google Photos for eligible U.S. subscribers.
Google debuted Personal Intelligence last week within the Gemini app. This feature enables the AI assistant to tailor responses by connecting across the user’s Google ecosystem, initially encompassing Gmail, Photos, Search, and YouTube history.
The opt-in feature is currently rolling out to AI Mode for Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers. Availability is limited to users in the U.S. and requires English language settings.
Integrating Personal Intelligence into Gemini and AI Mode allows Google to utilize existing user data within its services. Users already employ Gmail and Photos, facilitating the delivery of personalized experiences. Users retain the ability to activate or deactivate Personal Intelligence at any time.
Robby Stein, Vice President of Product for Google Search, stated in a blog post, “With Personal Intelligence, recommendations don’t just match your interests — they fit seamlessly into your life. You don’t have to constantly explain your preferences or existing plans, it selects recommendations just for you, right from the start.”
For example, if a user plans a vacation, AI Mode can use hotel booking information from Gmail and past travel photos from Google Photos. This allows it to suggest a tailored itinerary, including recommendations such as an old-fashioned ice cream parlor based on numerous ice cream selfies.
AI Mode provides a personalized starting point for planning. It does not generate generic lists of restaurants or activities.
Stein also noted, “Personal Intelligence can also be particularly helpful for shopping, because AI Mode considers the types of items you buy and where you shop. If you need a new coat for your upcoming trip, AI Mode could automatically take into account the brands you prefer, as well as your flight confirmation in Gmail to identify the destination and timing (Chicago in March). You’ll get suggestions for windproof, versatile coats that fit the weather and your preferred look. It’s like a personal shopper who already knows your itinerary and the vibe you’re going for.”
Examples of user queries include: “Make a scavenger hunt for [partner’s name] to celebrate our anniversary. For each location, include a hint about us,” or “I’m decorating [child’s name ]’s bedroom, give me ideas for a theme and suggestions for decor.”
Google confirms that AI Mode does not directly train on a user’s Gmail inbox or Google Photos library. Instead, it trains on specific prompts and the model’s responses.
