Google Chrome's New AI Can Read Your Tabs and Do Tasks

Google Chrome is no longer just a browser for opening websites. With Gemini AI built into supported versions, you can summarize webpages, compare information across tabs, and even ask AI to handle certain online tasks. This means less time reading and more time getting things done. But as browsers become more capable, you also have more decisions to make about privacy and data sharing.

Gemini in Chrome is Google's AI assistant that works right inside the browser. Once you opt in, it can use information from your current tab to answer questions, explain concepts, and summarize content. On supported desktop setups, it can also pull from up to 10 additional open tabs—handy for researching a purchase or comparing products. For example, you could ask it to compare prices across multiple shopping sites without manually switching back and forth.

However, there's a catch: Gemini shares your current tab by default when you start a new chat. You can change this in Settings > AI innovations > Gemini in Chrome by turning off 'Share current tab by default.' You can also remove individual tabs from a conversation. This matters if you're handling confidential information like financial documents or customer records. Before using Gemini with sensitive material, review your sharing settings and follow your organization's data-handling policies.

Gemini in Chrome is rolling out gradually, and availability depends on your device, account, region, language, and age. For desktop, you'll need a supported configuration. On Android, you need Android 12 or newer, at least 4 GB of RAM, English settings, and you must be 18 or older in supported regions. Managed work or school accounts may require administrator approval, and Gemini is unavailable in Incognito mode. So if you want to try it, check if you're eligible and adjust your settings to protect your privacy.