Stop Chrome Browser From Downloading a Hidden 4GB AI File

Google Chrome on eligible Macs has been quietly downloading a roughly 4GB local AI model file, weights.bin, for Gemini Nano features.

The model supports features like scam detection and writing help, and reports tie the behavior to Chrome 148.

Users can find the file in Chrome’s Application Support folder and stop future downloads by turning off on-device AI or related Chrome flags.

The hidden download may consume significant storage without clear notice, but disabling it can also reduce Chrome AI functionality.