9to5Google article
New Google Search setting saves images and audio you upload; how to turn it off
https://9to5google.com/2026/06/22/google-saving-audio-images-used-to-search-how-to-turn-it-off/
Here's a summary.
Google has announced that it will now save files and media uploaded during searches to user search history in order to train AI and improve the user experience (as previously announced last month). Search history includes photos, screenshots captured with 'Circle to Search,' and audio files used for voice searches. However, users can disable this feature if they wish.
You may have already seen a new pop-up window appearing while using one of the Google search tools on your Android device. 9to5Google reported that, as usual, a guidance card appeared during the process of using Circle to Search. The message states that all media used in Google Search activity is now saved in the user's 'Search service history'.
Google has stated its intention to use the collected data to train AI models, and this data will be stored for a maximum of four years. More detailed information can be found on the official Google Help page.
Managing saved media in Google Search service history
https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/17028154?hl=ko
activity.google.com to delete previously saved media from your Google Search service history. Saved media already selected for AI model training will no longer be linked to the user's account, and will be stored for a maximum of four years even if the original activity is deleted.
