Chrome's 4GB AI model isn't new, but you're not wrong for being confused

Google clarified that Chrome’s on-device AI model still runs locally and does not send data to Google.

Users spotted a Chrome 148 settings label change that removed explicit wording about data not being shared with Google.

Google said the label was updated earlier in 2026 to better explain how Chrome’s AI APIs work.

Any data the model uses is visible only to the website using the API, not Google servers.

The change renewed concerns about privacy, opt-out AI features, and confusing disclosure language.