The latest update to the Google Chrome browser sparked widespread controversy among users and technology communities, after generative artificial intelligence features were directly integrated into the daily browsing environment, raising concerns related to privacy and the appropriation of device resources.

In response to this controversy, Google was keen to clarify its position and the mechanism of operation of these technologies, stressing that the integration of artificial intelligence tools aims primarily to improve the user experience and facilitate searches, organize tabs, and smart writing, and not violate privacy.

The company explained that the new features depend on processing data with the highest security standards, noting that users have complete freedom to control these features. Google confirmed that artificial intelligence features can be completely turned off or activated via browser settings with ease, giving account holders absolute authority to determine the amount of data shared.

This clarification came to allay concerns about the possibility of exploiting personal data to develop artificial intelligence models without explicit permission, as the company stressed its commitment to transparency and protecting users’ browsing records.