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Chrome rolls out enhanced autofill, using Gemini AI to pull Gmail details for U.S. users
Chrome's enhanced autofill feature, which utilizes Google's Gemini AI, is now being rolled out in the U.S. This capability allows the browser to search a user's Gmail account to populate web forms.
The system is designed to locate and insert specific details such as order numbers, tracking information, and flight bookings when a form requests them, according to Amanda Lim, a Chrome product manager.
This functionality operates through Personal Intelligence, a feature within Gemini, which enables the AI assistant to reference connected applications like Gmail and Google Photos to customize its responses to the individual user's life.
The feature is currently accessible to U.S. users of Gemini in Chrome who have Personal Intelligence activated across desktop, Android, and iOS platforms.
Google stated that sensitive data remains encrypted, and users maintain control over this feature through the Chrome settings. The announcement explicitly noted that the data pulled from Gmail does not include credit cards or addresses.
Furthermore, Google indicated that "Built with privacy in mind, Gemini and AI Mode don’t train directly on your Gmail inbox or Google Photos library." AI Mode is Google’s AI-powered experience within Search, and users retain the ability to switch app connections off at any time.
This development follows prior policy adjustments, including a revision to Google’s privacy policy effective Oct. 16, which allows personalized ads to draw on Gmail, Drive, and Photos content if users grant access to other Google services.
The introduction of this capability builds upon existing browser functionalities, such as the AI browsing agent offered to paying U.S. subscribers in January, which navigates websites and completes forms on behalf of the user.
This integration reflects a broader trend among major technology providers to deepen the utility of AI assistants by connecting them directly to users' personal data streams across various Google services.
Why it matters
This development highlights the increasing integration of generative AI into core browser functions, raising questions about data privacy and access. As regulators and courts scrutinize data handling, how this feature operates will be closely watched by consumers concerned about personal information exposure.
