MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., July 15 (San Francisco News Online) — Google is rolling out a new Search privacy control called Search Services History, and it changes what Google can save when someone uses Search while signed in.
What the setting can collect
According to Google’s own documentation, as described in coverage by Fox News, PCMag, TechTimes, Engadget and Omega Technology Solutions Group, Search Services History can include more than typed searches. It may cover Google Lens images, voice searches, Search Live recordings and transcripts, Translate speaking-practice audio, uploaded files and other activity information.
Google also includes a Save Media switch under Search Services History. When that switch is on, Google can save media from Search-related interactions. Google says saved media may be used “to develop and improve Google services and technologies, including AI models and safety measures.”
Why it matters
For many users, the key issue is that Search is now tied more directly to AI training controls. The company’s documentation, as reported by the outlets, says Search Services History and Personalized Recommendations are separate controls from Web & App Activity. Reports differ on how that change fits with older account settings during the rollout, but Google says the new control is being released gradually, so not every account may see it yet.
Google’s documentation also says media already selected for AI training is no longer connected to the account and can be kept for up to four years.
How to turn it off
Google says the settings can be managed at myactivity.google.com. If Search Services History is available on the account, it can be turned off there. If only Save Media appears, that box can be unchecked.
One important catch: turning off Save Media does not automatically delete media already saved. Google’s instructions say previously saved items need to be deleted from the account if removal is the goal.
What services are affected?
One report based on Google’s notification says the change reaches Search, Maps, Shopping, Flights, Hotels, Translate, News, AI Mode and Ask Maps threads with file uploads. TechTimes also reported that Google Photos is excluded, meaning the policy is aimed at media sent through Search and AI tools rather than a personal photo library.
For now, the new control is best understood as a way for Google to separate Search activity from broader account privacy settings, while giving users a clearer switch for whether their Search media can be used to help improve its AI systems.
