You didn’t install it, and you probably had no idea it was there. But if you use Google Chrome on a desktop, a 4GB AI model called Gemini Nano might be taking up space on your hard drive. This model was quietly added to some Chrome browsers between late April and early May 2026. Security researcher Alexander Hanff discovered that it was installed automatically, without any permission or notification.
Gemini Nano runs directly on devices like smartphones and laptops instead of relying on the cloud. Hanff emphasizes that users won’t even know it’s there unless they actively search for it. It can perform various tasks such as detecting scam calls, helping with text messages, summarizing recordings, and analyzing Pixel phone screenshots.
Interestingly, Google claims that Gemini Nano will uninstall itself if there aren’t enough hardware resources available. They also mentioned that a feature was rolled out in February allowing users to disable or remove this model easily.
How to Check for Gemini Nano
To see if Gemini Nano is installed on your device, you’ll need to search for it:
On a Mac: Open Finder. Click on “Go” in the menu bar while holding the “Option” key, then select “Library.” Navigate to
Application Support > Google > Chrome > Default. Check if there is a folder namedOptGuideOnDeviceModel. If you find a file calledweights.bin, the AI model is installed.On Windows: You can find it using the Run Command. Press the Windows key and “R”, paste
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data\OptGuideOnDeviceModel, and hit Enter. Alternatively, using File Explorer, checkC:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\OptGuideOnDeviceModelforweights.bin.
Uninstalling Gemini Nano
If you want to remove Gemini Nano, here’s how:
On a Mac: Open Chrome, go to the three-dot menu, click on “Settings”, then “System”, and toggle off “On-device AI.”
On Windows: In Chrome, navigate to “Settings > System”, and toggle off “On-device AI.” Also, type
chrome://flagsin the address bar, search for “optimization guide,” and set it to “Disabled.” After that, completely close Chrome and delete theOptGuideOnDeviceModelfolder inC:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data.
Concerns About Privacy
Many are worried about the implications of this model being installed without consent. Privacy advocate Alexander Hanff points out that this could violate European laws regarding data protection. He believes Google should have sought permission from users rather than quietly installing the model, raising questions about transparency.
The growing use of AI on personal devices highlights a shift in the tech landscape. According to a recent survey, 71% of users are concerned about AI applications on their devices without their knowledge. This concern indicates a growing need for clearer communication and consent in tech practices.
Understandably, users are demanding transparency and control over what is installed on their devices. The tech world is evolving, and so must its relationship with consumers. With more features relying on user hardware, companies should prioritize user trust and privacy.
For additional insights about how AI is integrated into everyday tools and their implications, check out this CNET article that explores generative AI development in-depth.
