Chrome's hidden 4GB AI model stash prompts consent questions
TL;DR Summary
A 4GB file named weights.bin has surfaced in Chrome folders, tied to Gemini Nano on-device AI that runs features like autofill and text summaries; Google says the model is downloaded to keep on-device features ready and has added an opt-out, but concerns remain about transparency and consent as users may not be clearly informed of the storage impact. Deleting it may not be permanent if related AI features stay enabled.
- 'No clear consent flow for this download': Google Chrome is silently stashing a 4GB AI model on your device Tom's Guide
- Google Chrome Might Have Installed an AI Model Onto Your Device Without You Knowing CNET
- Is Chrome's 4GB 'weights.bin' file spyware? Google clarifies (Updated) Android Authority
- Why Chrome may have quietly downloaded a 4GB file to your PC - and how to get rid of it ZDNET
- Google Chrome Is Downloading a 4GB AI Model Onto Your Device Without Consent, Researcher Warns Gizmodo
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