Data Privacy: We often notice that, shortly after talking about a topic on the phone, that related ad pops up in front of us. Then the question arises – is Google recording all our words? Although the answer is not a direct ‘yes’ or ‘no’, Google’s ‘Voice & Audio Activity’ feature works behind it.
1. What is Google Voice Activity?
This is a special feature of your Google Account. Whenever you say “Ok Google” or “Hey Google” or use voice search, Google saves your command. Google claims they do this so your voice assistant can work more accurately and serve you better.
2. Does Google record without permission?
According to Google’s policy, they only record audio when you give voice commands or give permission to use the microphone. However, many times the phone can be accidentally activated (Accidental Activation), as a result of which some things are recorded without your knowledge. And this is the reason why many think that Google is always in trouble.
3. How to view your voice recording?
You can easily see what Google has saved:
1 Go to your Google Account.
2 Click on ‘My Activity’ option from ‘Data & Privacy’ section.
3 There, filter ‘Voice & Audio Activity’ and you will see your recordings with date and time. You can even play and listen to them.
How to delete or stop?
If you do not want to keep these recordings, take the following steps:
Delete: You can delete recordings one by one or all at once.
Auto-delete: The option to automatically delete after a certain period of time can also be turned on.
Close: If you uncheck the ‘Voice & Audio Activity’ option from the settings, Google will no longer save your voice.
5. Some important tips to protect privacy
Check permissions: Turn off permissions for apps on your phone that don’t need to use the microphone.
Turn off ‘Hey Google’: If you don’t use Google Assistant regularly, it’s wise to turn it off in your phone’s settings.
Monitor regularly: Check your Google Account activity log from time to time.
(Remember: Google Voice Activity is not spyware, but a service feature. However, it is your responsibility to protect your personal information and privacy.)