Google Chrome may have silently installed 4GB AI model on your computer. Here's how to check

Google’s on-device AI model, Gemini Nano, was detected on half of tested devices running Chrome on MacOS and Windows, stored as a 4GB file called 'weights.bin' in a folder labeled 'OptGuideOnDeviceModel.' The model is used for features like scam detection and the 'Help me write' tool, according to Google, but its presence depends on device specifications and storage space. It is not installed on mobile devices due to compatibility issues. Google confirmed the model began rolling out in 2024 and automatically uninstalls if storage is low. In February 2026, the company introduced an option in Chrome settings to disable or remove the model, though availability is not universal. Users who deleted the file manually previously claimed it would reinstall, but Snopes testing found the opt-out option successfully removed the file on all tested devices. The file’s location varies by operating system, residing within Chrome’s user data folder. Social media posts and tech blogs had previously documented the model’s presence before and after February 2026, though its installation was not universally reported. Google stated the model does not send user data to the cloud, relying instead on local processing for security and functionality. Snopes verified the claims on employees’ devices but noted inconsistencies, as the model was absent on some systems. Google’s statement emphasized the model’s role in enhancing security without cloud dependency, while also acknowledging storage requirements. The company did not respond to further queries about reinstallation claims after opt-out. Users concerned about privacy can check for the file manually or use Chrome’s settings to disable it, though the opt-out feature may not be immediately accessible for all. Snopes will continue monitoring affected devices for potential reinstalls.