Automatic memory for AI assistants marks a shift in how users interact with chatbots. Google’s latest Gemini update streamlines conversations by allowing the app to remember your preferences and context from previous chats, so you get more relevant answers without repeating yourself. At the same time, the update addresses privacy concerns by rolling out Temporary Chats, which keep specific conversations out of your permanent history and away from Google’s AI training data.

Personalized Responses That Learn From Your History

Gemini’s new "Personal context" setting allows the app to reference details from your earlier conversations, which means it can tailor responses based on your unique interests and previous requests. For example, if you’ve discussed your favorite comic book characters, Gemini can suggest party ideas themed around those characters. If you’ve brainstormed YouTube content about Japanese culture, Gemini may offer new video ideas that build on that interest. This approach reduces repetitive context-setting and makes the AI feel more like a collaborative partner who remembers your style and goals.

Personal context is enabled by default for users of the Gemini 2.5 Pro model in select countries, with plans to expand to other models and regions. You can disable this feature at any time by navigating to Settings > Personal context > Your past chats with Gemini. Turning it off stops Gemini from referencing your previous chats for future personalization.

Temporary Chats: Private Conversations That Don’t Stick Around

For discussions you don’t want influencing future responses or lingering in your chat history, Gemini now offers Temporary Chats. This feature acts like an incognito mode for your AI assistant, letting you have one-off conversations that are excluded from your main chat log and aren’t used to train Google’s models. Temporary Chats are kept for up to 72 hours solely to allow for follow-ups or feedback, after which they’re deleted.

To start a Temporary Chat, look for the dedicated button next to the "New chat" option in the Gemini app. Anything discussed in these sessions won’t appear in your recent chats, won’t be used for personalization, and will not be included in Google’s AI training data—even if personal context is enabled elsewhere. This is especially useful for private questions or brainstorming outside your usual interests.

Upgraded Privacy Controls and Data Management

Gemini’s update isn’t just about smarter responses; it also refines how your data is handled. The "Gemini Apps Activity" setting is being renamed to "Keep Activity." When this is on, Google may use a sample of your future uploads—like files or photos—to improve its services. If you’ve already turned off Gemini Apps Activity, the new Keep Activity setting will remain off, and you can opt out at any time or use Temporary Chats for added privacy.

Another recent addition lets you decide if audio, video, and screen recordings shared via Gemini Live are used to improve Google’s services. This particular setting is off by default and can be switched on if you wish to contribute data for model improvement. All these controls are found in the Gemini app’s privacy settings, giving you the flexibility to manage how much of your data is used and for what purpose.

Why These Changes Matter

Automatic personalization means less time spent re-explaining your needs, and more time getting actionable, relevant answers. For professionals and teams juggling sensitive topics or client work, Temporary Chats provide a straightforward way to keep brainstorming or confidential discussions separate from your main AI context. The new privacy controls also clarify what data is used and how, responding to ongoing concerns about AI data collection and default opt-in settings.

Gemini’s latest update delivers a smarter, more responsive AI assistant while addressing privacy head-on. Whether you prefer a digital assistant that learns your habits or want to keep certain chats strictly off the record, the new features put you in the driver’s seat.