Google Chrome silently downloads 4GB AI model; raises EU privacy and power concerns
Google Chrome is quietly downloading a 4GB AI model to users' devices without explicit consent, per a Tom's Hardware report citing researcher findings. The practice may violate EU data protection rules and consume thousands of kilowatts annually, raising concerns among privacy advocates and infrastructure planners.
The disclosure highlights tensions between on-device AI optimization and user consent frameworks, particularly under GDPR and emerging EU AI Act compliance mandates.