AI Mode is Google's innovative feature with conversational search capabilities designed to tackle complex problems and deliver more personalized experiences. The tech giant announced on Thursday that it is introducing "Personal Intelligence" into AI Mode, enabling it to access your Gmail and Google Photos to provide more tailored responses.
Last week, Google launched the Personal Intelligence feature in the Gemini app, allowing the AI assistant to customize responses by connecting to your Google ecosystem, starting with Gmail, Photos, search history, and YouTube history.
This opt-in feature is now rolling out to Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers in the United States, with support for English.
By integrating Personal Intelligence into Gemini and AI Mode, Google is leveraging the vast amount of user data already present in its ecosystem. Since users already rely on services like Gmail and Photos, Google can offer a level of personalization that competitors find hard to match. Of course, not everyone wants an AI to view their photos and emails, so you can turn Personal Intelligence on or off at any time.
"With Personal Intelligence, recommendations aren't just aligned with your interests—they seamlessly integrate into your life," explained Robby Stein, Google's Vice President of Search Products, in a blog post. "You don't have to constantly explain your preferences or existing plans; it selects recommendations for you from the start."
Imagine you're planning a vacation and looking for activities and restaurants that the whole family will enjoy. With Personal Intelligence, AI Mode can use your hotel bookings from Gmail and past travel memories from Google Photos to suggest a customized itinerary suitable for everyone. For example, you might see a recommendation for a classic ice cream shop based on the many ice cream selfies stored in your Google Photos.
Google notes that AI Mode won't just give you a generic list of restaurants and activities; instead, it offers a personalized starting point for planning.
"Personal Intelligence is also particularly helpful for shopping, as AI Mode considers the types of items you buy and where you shop," Stein wrote. "If you need to buy a new coat for an upcoming trip, AI Mode can automatically factor in your favorite brands, along with flight confirmation details from Gmail, to determine the destination and timing (like Chicago in March). You'll get suggestions for a windproof, versatile coat suited to the weather and your preferred style. It's like having a personal shopping consultant who already knows your itinerary and tastes."
Google states that you can also ask other questions, such as: "Create a scavenger hunt for [partner's name] to celebrate our anniversary. Include a clue about us for each location," or "I'm decorating [child's name]'s bedroom; give me some theme and decoration ideas."