Google has announced that starting July 7, 2025, its Gemini AI will access users' texts and other critical apps, even if users have opted out of Gemini Apps Activity, raising significant privacy concerns.

In a recent email to Android users, Google stated that Gemini will assist in managing Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities, which has sparked confusion and criticism on social media.

The email notification did not clearly define what 'help you use' these apps entails, leading to concerns about how user data will be processed and used.

Although users can reportedly disable the new features in the Apps settings page, Google has not provided clear instructions, causing further confusion.

Disabling Gemini’s features involves navigating a complex settings menu, and Google may retain some user data for up to 72 hours.

Google's privacy documentation states that data may still be retained for up to 72 hours even if Gemini Apps Activity is off, which has alarmed privacy advocates.

Users are cautioned against sharing confidential information with Gemini, as some conversations may be reviewed for up to three years.

The update will allow Gemini to interact directly with essential apps like Phone, Messages, and WhatsApp without requiring user consent, even if Gemini App Activity is turned off.

Concerns about privacy stem from vague definitions of permissions and the potential for automatic message modification or sending without user knowledge.

There is confusion among users, as not all Android device owners have received the notification about this update, leading to uncertainty about its rollout.

Google is urged to be more transparent about these changes to avoid potential issues with user consent and privacy.

The integration of agentic AI into smartphones necessitates a conversation about data privacy and user consent, reminiscent of past debates surrounding voice assistants.