Chrome 148 Downloaded 4GB of AI Data Without Asking – Here’s How to Stop It

Chrome 148 Downloaded 4GB of AI Data Without Asking – Here’s How to Stop It If you noticed your internet data or disk space suddenly vanishing a few weeks ago, you weren’t alone. Chrome users around the world discovered that version 148 of the browser had silently downloaded roughly 4GB of AI-related data in the background—with no pop-up, no explanation, and no obvious way to stop it. The backlash was immediate, and Google has since issued a statement explaining what happened. ...

May 11, 2026 · 4 min · BriefArc Desk

Chrome's Secret 4GB AI Download: What It Is and How to Stop It

Chrome’s Silent 4GB AI Download: What It Is and How to Stop It If you noticed your Chrome browser using up a few extra gigabytes of disk space recently, you are not alone. Users of Chrome version 148 on desktop (and possibly Android) have discovered that the browser automatically downloaded an AI model of about 4 GB without asking. Google has since confirmed the download and explained its purpose. Here is what you need to know and, more importantly, how to manage or disable it if you prefer to keep your data and storage under your own control. ...

May 11, 2026 · 5 min · BriefArc Desk