Google has just gotten more personal with Gemini. It is using what it already knows about you to create ultra-personalized experiences. And it’s all starting with your data.
At Google I/O 2025, the company revealed that Gemini is plunging deep into your world. With your permission, Gemini can now scan your emails, Google Drive files, and soon, even your YouTube history and Google Photos.
The point of all this access is to help Gemini craft responses that sound just like you. Then, it uses its newfound ability to function as an assistant.
What Is “Personal Context”?
This is the term that describes Gemini’s ability to connect the dots between different apps and services you use.
Gemini looks out for your writing style, go-to greetings, frequently used words, Email threads, and shared documents.
It then condenses this information to form elements that will be reproduced in its responses.
Smarter Replies in Gmail
Google’s updated smart replies in Gmail show how this works in action. Gemini now considers the full context of past conversations, and also scans files stored in your Drive.
The result is replies that sound more natural and more like you. You won’t just get generic one-liners like “Sounds good.”
Instead, the suggestions might include personalized answers based on prior emails. If you often reply with “Let me check my schedule,” Gemini will remember that and suggest it.
A Major Advantage Over Competitors
This gives Google a huge edge over other AI developers like OpenAI and Anthropic. ChatGPT and Claude typically start fresh with every user.
They don’t know your favorite phrases or what kind of content you like. However, Gemini does, due to an existing user record with Google.
ChatGPT Comes Close
In a Sequoia interview, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated that ChatGPT’s ultimate aim is to remember your life. He thinks of a kind of digital assistant with a record of all your life details and experiences.
This will be geared towards the ultimate purpose of being your right-hand man. It appears major AI chatbots are competing for the same spot.
More Personalization
The upgrade will not stop at Gmail and Drive, Google plans to integrate even more services like YouTube watch history and Google calender events.
New Privacy Concern
Naturally, there are concerns and fears. The upgrade sounds like ease but privacy may be the cost. Google placates fears by stating that these features are strictly opt-in.
You must give permission before Gemini uses your data. The company further promises it stores and uses information securely.
This means you can manage what Gemini sees in your account settings. You can also turn off personalization at any time.
