Gemini AI to Access Calls and Messages on Android Even When Turned Off

Google's Gemini team is informing Android users about a big change coming soon. Starting July 7, 2025, Gemini will have access to Phones, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities on Android phones, regardless of Gemini Apps Activity status.

Gemini will soon be able to assist with using Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities on your phone, regardless of your Gemini Apps Activity settings.

This raises privacy concerns as the email lacks clarity on what assistance with these apps entails.

Users who wish to opt out of these changes can do so on the Apps settings page, but details on locating this option or the specific disabled features are not provided.

It is uncertain if Gemini will be able to read or send messages, access call logs, or interact with third-party apps like WhatsApp by default, even for those who have opted out of Gemini Apps Activity.

Google's privacy documentation states that data may be retained for up to 72 hours for quality and security reasons when Gemini Apps Activity is off. With the setting on, data is stored for up to 18 months and may be reviewed by humans, with personal identifiers removed. Users are cautioned against sharing confidential information with Gemini, as some conversations may be reviewed for up to three years.

These changes are set to take effect on July 7, less than two weeks away.

According to the source: Yahoo.