Google Gemini to Access SMS, Emails and Call Logs on Android Phones
Google announced that Gemini will request permission to access users' emails, SMS messages, and call logs on Android phones starting July 7, 2025, to provide more contextual responses. Privacy concerns have been raised about the scope of data access and whether processing occurs locally or in the cloud, with deployment in Europe reportedly delayed due to GDPR requirements.
What happened
Google announced that Gemini will request permission to access users' emails, SMS messages, and call logs on Android phones starting July 7, 2025. Google stated the new features will allow Gemini to provide more relevant and contextual responses and suggestions.
Reported impact
Privacy advocates raised concerns about the extent of personal data access being requested. The facts do not specify whether data processing occurs locally on the device or in the cloud.
Index analysis
Google did not clearly explain how users could refuse the data scanning. The deployment plan does not mention availability in Europe due to GDPR and other AI regulations in force on the continent.
Governance controls
Google specified that explicit user authorization will be required before Gemini accesses these data categories. The new features will function even if users have disabled Gemini activity history.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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