Google’s Gemini team has informed Android users of a significant change set to take effect on July 7, 2025. Starting then, Gemini will have access to Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities apps on Android phones, even when the Gemini Apps Activity is turned off.
The move raises serious privacy concerns as the email explaining the changes does not provide clear details on how it will work. Users can reportedly opt out of these changes by adjusting settings in the Apps settings page, but the process remains unclear.
Gemini’s current data retention policies suggest that data may still be stored for up to 72 hours when Gemini Apps Activity is off and up to 18 months with human review when active. The company advises users not to share confidential information with Gemini, as conversations may be reviewed for three years.
The sudden announcement has sparked worry among Android users, who have less than two weeks to prepare for the changes taking effect on July 7, 2025.
Source: https://www.extremetech.com/mobile/gemini-ai-will-soon-access-calls-and-messages-on-your-android-even-if-you