Choose what Gemini in Chrome can read

Gemini in Chrome can use the page you are viewing, plus other tabs you share. Check that selection before asking it to summarise a page, especially when you also have private work open.

These desktop steps follow Google's help and Privacy Hub. The screenshot is a crop of Google's browser demonstration, not a test of our account.

1. Start with a public page

1. Open a public article in desktop Chrome. Choose something you can share without exposing private information.
2. Select Ask Gemini at the top of the browser. Read the first-use notice before opting in.
3. Check the shared tabs before sending a question. The current tab is shared by default.

Google is gradually releasing the feature. Check its account, region and device requirements (opens in a new tab) before starting. It is unavailable in Incognito.

2. Remove a tab you do not want to share

1. Above the prompt box, select Show shared tabs.
2. Next to an unwanted tab, select Remove tab.
3. Check that the tab's glowing underline disappears.

Use Add tabs, or type @ in the prompt, to select another relevant page when needed. Google's documentation allows up to ten additional open tabs. Start with one so you can check which page supports each answer.

Enlarge image

Google's Gemini in Chrome demonstration with Add tabs and Select from screen controls

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Google's cropped browser demonstration shows Add tabs and Select from screen.

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3. Select a specific part of a page

1. In Gemini's panel, open the Add menu.
2. Select Select from screen.
3. Draw a box around the diagram or passage you want to ask about.
4. Adjust the box edges before submitting. Press Escape to leave selection mode.

Try this request: "Explain the selected diagram in plain English. Separate what its labels say from your interpretation. If a label is unreadable, say which one."

A selected box focuses the question. It is not a guarantee that only those pixels reach Gemini. Google says shared-tab content and its URL are processed, and some content Gemini uses may not be visible on your screen.

4. Check the summary on the original page

1. Ask for a short summary of the selected page, including the claim you want to verify.
2. Compare names, dates and numbers with the original text.
3. If the answer refers to another page, open that source and check it before using the claim.

For a public article, try: "Summarise this page in five sentences. Keep its dates and qualifications. Identify statements the page does not support."

Do not use a convincing summary as a substitute for checking a purchase condition or deadline.

5. Change the default for future chats

1. Open Chrome Settings.
2. Choose AI innovations, then Gemini in Chrome.
3. Under Permissions, turn off Share current tab by default if you prefer to select pages yourself.
4. Check the shared-tab selection when you start another chat.

Removing a tab stops sharing it. It does not promise deletion of information already processed. Google's Privacy Hub explains activity storage. Sharing a Workspace page can also give Gemini access to the full document, so use your organisation's rules before sharing work material.

If Ask Gemini is missing

Check Google's availability requirements (opens in a new tab). A subscription alone is not a reason to assume your device, region or managed profile qualifies. Do not pay solely to try a feature whose availability you have not confirmed.

Sources: Gemini in Chrome controls (opens in a new tab), screen selection (opens in a new tab), Privacy Hub (opens in a new tab), Google's browser demonstration (opens in a new tab).