Google Responds to Criticism of Automatic Download of Gemini Nano in Chrome

Google has officially responded to criticisms surrounding Chrome's behavior, accused of automatically downloading the AI model Gemini Nano onto users' systems without requiring explicit consent. At the center of the discussion is a file of about 4 GB that the browser installs locally to support some AI-based functionalities.

We've seen some questions about Gemini Nano on @googlechrome, so I want to clarify a few things. On-device AI is core to our developer & security strategy. 🧵
— Parisa Tabriz (@laparisa)
May 6, 2026

The issue came to light after researcher Alexander Hanff documented how Chrome proceeds to download the model in the background on compatible devices. According to reports, this operation occurs without clear notifications or immediately understandable mechanisms to prevent it. Moreover, simply manually deleting the files would not be sufficient: upon restarting the browser, Gemini Nano would be downloaded again.

The controversy intensified when several observers pointed out a discrepancy between the local model and the 'AI Mode' feature integrated into the Chrome address bar. The latter does not utilize Gemini Nano locally but forwards requests to Google's cloud servers. In practice, users bear the cost in terms of storage space and data traffic for a model that does not feed the most visible AI feature of the browser.

On the matter, Parisa Tabriz, VP and General Manager of Chrome, explained that Google has been distributing Gemini Nano within the browser since 2024 as a 'lightweight' model executed directly on the device. According to Tabriz, the on-device approach is a central element of Chrome's security strategy and the dedicated AI APIs for developers.

Among the uses indicated by Google are features for fraud protection and local analysis without transferring data to corporate servers. The company also claims that the model is automatically removed in cases where the device has limited free space.

While this requires some local space on the desktop to run, the model will automatically uninstall if the device is low on resources.
— Parisa Tabriz (@laparisa)
May 6, 2026

However, the issue of user consent remains open. Google has not directly clarified why the download occurs automatically or why the browser restores the model after a manual deletion. Meanwhile, some privacy experts have speculated about possible implications regarding European regulations, particularly the ePrivacy Directive, which requires prior consent for storing data on users' devices.

Google has, however, specified that Gemini Nano can be disabled and removed through Chrome's settings. Once the feature is disabled, the model should no longer be automatically downloaded.