Google to Use Ukrainians' Photos and Voice Queries for AI Training

Google Services Settings Get a Major Update

According to НВ — Техно: On July 7, 2026, Google announced changes to its service settings, expanding the types of data that can be used to improve its platforms and artificial intelligence models. The new policy applies to Google Search, Maps, Shopping, Flights, Hotels, Translate, and News. Users can adjust their preferences on the Search Services History page, where they have control over which data is stored.

This update follows a notification Google sent to users in June 2026. New features include Search Services History and Personalized Recommendations. Saved media files and search history will be used to develop and enhance services, train generative AI models, and ensure user safety. Activity history helps improve services and protect against potential threats.

What This Means for Users

Specifically, photos taken through Google Lens, voice search queries in the Google app, Search Live features, and pronunciation exercises in Google Translate may now be saved. Certain media files can remain in the system for AI training. However, users can disable media file storage or completely turn off search services history on the Search Services History page.

Google also offers automatic data deletion after 3, 18, or 36 months. This is a significant step toward greater transparency and user control over data. The company uses search history, location, and other data to personalize services and ads. Search history settings are now separate from the Web & App Activity section, giving users more flexibility in managing their information.

This update highlights the growing importance of user control over personal data in an era of widespread AI adoption.

By introducing these features, Google aims to boost transparency and security, which could strengthen user trust. It also reflects a broader industry trend where tech companies strive to balance personalization with privacy protection.

As Google enhances its data usage policies, the implications for search algorithms are becoming increasingly significant. Recent regulatory actions in the UK have compelled the tech giant to refine its search mechanisms, ensuring that user data is handled with greater care. To explore how these changes might affect search results and user experience, check out our article on Google's algorithm overhaul in the UK.