Technology
8 min read
Google Search AI Now Integrates Gmail and Photos Data
bandt.com.au
January 22, 2026•2 hours ago

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Google's AI Mode in Search can now access Gmail and Photos data for personalized results. This feature, previously in Gemini, aims to provide more relevant search suggestions by using personal context. Available initially to US users with personal accounts, it allows AI to consider past purchases, travel plans, and preferences. Google cautions users to expect potential inaccuracies as the experimental feature develops.
Overnight, Google revealed that its Personal Intelligence tool, which can pull data from users Gmail, YouTube, Search and Photos accounts, would be coming to its AI mode in Google Search.
Personal Intelligence was first introduced by Google last week within its Gemini chatbot interface. Now, the tool is expanding to AI Mode within Google Search with Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers able opt-in to connect Gmail and Google Photos to AI Mode.
Google hopes this new feature will deliver more helpful search results based on personal context and insights. Currently, the tool is only available to US users and it will roll out over the coming days. This experimental feature is only available for personal Google accounts and not for Workspace business, enterprise or education users.
Robby Stein, VP of product, Google Search explained in Google’s announcement how the feature has improved his life.
“I was looking for a new pair of sneakers, and AI Mode noticed a brand I’d just bought and suggested a new style I hadn’t seen yet. The recommendation was spot on—I bought them instantly!”
He highlighted the practical uses of personalised results whilst getting ready for an upcoming trip. Specifically, finding the best places to eat and stay, as well as having the right attire for the trip.
“If you need a new coat for your upcoming trip, AI Mode could automatically take into account the brands you prefer, as well as your flight confirmation in Gmail to identify the destination and timing (Chicago in March). You’ll get suggestions for windproof, versatile coats that fit the weather and your preferred look. It’s like a personal shopper who already knows your itinerary and the vibe you’re going for,” explained Stein.
However, while Personal Intelligence in Search could be the best thing since sliced bread, Google is still telling users to expect mistakes. The feature is capable of making incorrect connections between unrelated topics, as well as not fully understanding context. If a recommendation isn’t right, Google said users can correct it and clarify what exactly they are looking for with a follow-up response in AI Mode.
AI Mode uses Gemini 3 and doesn’t train directly on Gmail inbox or Google Photos library. Training is contained to limited info, such as specific prompts in AI Mode and the model’s responses, to improve functionality over time.
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