Chrome automatically downloads 4GB Gemini Nano AI model file, consuming significant user storage
By
Jess Weatherbed
A respectable bake. You'd come back tomorrow for another.
Summary
Google Chrome is automatically downloading a 4GB AI model file (weights.bin) associated with its Gemini Nano AI into users' browser directories when certain AI features are enabled. This large file, which powers tools like scam detection, writing assistance, autofill, and suggestion features, is causing unexplained storage drops on users' desktop devices. The discovery has raised concerns about Chrome consuming significant storage space without clear user notification or consent.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledUsers who have noticed unexplained drops in their available desktop device storage are now discovering that Chrome is installing a 4GB weights.bin file inside their browser directory when certain AI features are enabled.
The weights.bin file in question is connected to Google's Gemini Nano AI model, which powers Chrome AI tools like scam detection, writing assistance, autofill, and suggestion features.
Google Chrome may be taking up more of your storage than expected thanks to a large on-device AI model file that, in some cases, is being automatically downloaded to the browser's system folders.
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