Google Gemini launches personalized search feature with deep search history integration

Google has recently announced a new program for its Gemini AI Assistant is launching an experimental feature called Gemini with personalization. This new feature will allow Gemini to connect to a user's Google apps (currently supporting Google search history first) to provide more personalized and targeted responses.

Start your experience here: https://gemini.google/overview/personalization/

Google says Gemini aims to be a personal AI assistant that truly understands its users, rather than just answering general questions. The launch of personalization is an important step toward that goal. The feature is powered by Google's experimental Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking model, which connects users to Google apps and services.

With user authorization, Gemini can now customize responses based on a user's past search history. This saves users time and provides more accurate answers.Google plans to extend this feature to more Google apps and services, including Google Albums and YouTube, in the coming months.This will enable Gemini to understand user activity and preferences on a broader level, providing more personalized insights.

To use this feature, users can select the "Personalize (Experimental)" option[^1] from the Model drop-down menu in Gemini Apps and then connect to their Google search history. Then, when the user enters a prompt, Gemini analyzes the prompt and determines if the user's search history contributes to the response. Of course, users can easily disconnect Gemini from their search history at any time.

Google emphasizes that it will only use this data when advanced inference models determine that a user's search history is actually helpful. Early beta users have found that personalizing Gemini helps with brainstorming and getting personalized suggestions.

Here are some examples of tips to try:

• Where should I go on vacation this summer?
• I want to create a YouTube channel but need some content ideas.
• As a newbie, what hobby or job would you suggest I take up?

This personalization feature is currently available as an experimental feature to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers on the web and will be rolled out gradually on mobile. It supports more than 45 languages and is available in most countries worldwide.

Built-in privacy and data controls

Google emphasizes that users have full control over their information in this update.Google has implemented the following privacy protections:

• Clearly communicated: Gemini asks users for permission before connecting to their search history or any other application. This ensures that users are fully informed and in control of whether their data is used.
• Transparency of data sources: Google's Advanced Thinking Model provides a complete overview of how Gemini personalizes responses and can show which data sources were used (e.g., a user's saved messages, past chats, or search history). When a user uses the Personalized Experiments feature, Gemini displays a clear banner with a link that makes it easy to disconnect from the user's search history.
• Data and Control: In this experimental feature, Gemini only accesses a user's search history if the user selects the Gemini personalization feature, authorizes Gemini to connect to his or her search history, and enables web and application activity logging. Users can also view and manage their own search history.

More ways to personalize Gemini

Previously, users have been able to share their interests, preferences and important details (such as dietary restrictions or partner's name) with Gemini for more natural conversations and relevant responses. Additionally, Advanced subscribers can ask Gemini to refer to past chats to provide a more helpful response to the question at hand, a feature that Google plans to roll out to all Gemini users in over 45 languages in the coming weeks to further enhance the personalized experience.

Google says the updates are designed to make Gemini less of a tool and more of a natural extension of the user, anticipating their needs with truly personalized help.