Google Chrome is facing criticism after users discovered that the browser has been automatically downloading a large AI model, Gemini Nano, onto certain computers without clear user consent. The file, commonly labelled weights.bin, can take up nearly 4GB of storage space and is tied to Chrome’s growing set of on-device AI features.
The issue has sparked concerns around silent downloads, storage usage and bandwidth consumption, especially for users with limited disk space or capped internet connections.
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What Is Gemini Nano?
Google Chrome is integrating Gemini Nano, a lightweight version of Google’s AI model designed to run directly on a user’s device rather than through cloud servers.
Unlike traditional cloud-based AI systems, on-device AI processing keeps certain tasks local. Google says this approach can improve privacy, reduce latency and enable faster AI-powered features inside Chrome.
The downloaded model is typically stored inside a folder called OptGuideOnDeviceModel within Chrome’s User Data directory.
Why Is Chrome Downloading the File?
Google automatically triggers the download when Chrome detects that a computer’s hardware meets the requirements needed for local AI processing. Devices with capable CPUs or GPUs are more likely to receive the model.
The file supports several AI-powered Chrome features, including:
- “Help me write” for AI-assisted text composition.
- On-device scam and phishing detection.
- Website summarisation tools through Chrome’s Summarizer API.
Because these features rely on local processing, Chrome stores the model directly on the device instead of accessing it from remote servers each time.
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Why Users Are Concerned
The biggest criticism is not necessarily the AI model itself, but the lack of transparency around the download.
Many users reported discovering the large file only after noticing reduced storage space or unusual bandwidth usage. Since the model can automatically redownload after deletion, some users also found it difficult to permanently remove.
Privacy advocates and tech users have questioned whether browsers should install multi-gigabyte AI models without a more visible opt-in process.
Can You Delete the File?
Yes, the file can be removed manually. However, users have reported that Chrome downloads it again after the browser restarts if the related AI features remain enabled.
To stop the repeated download, the associated AI tools must be disabled.
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How to Stop Chrome From Downloading Gemini Nano
Users who do not want the on-device AI model can disable the related Chrome features through browser settings.
1. Turn Off AI Features in Chrome Settings
Open Chrome and navigate to:
Settings → AI Innovations
(or Experimental AI on some versions)
Disable features such as:
- “Help me write”
- AI-assisted browsing tools
- Other experimental AI options
2. Check Privacy and AI Preferences
Inside Chrome settings, look for options related to:
- “Improve your web experience”
- “On-device AI”
Ensure these settings are turned off.
3. Disable Related Chrome Flags
Advanced users can also visit:
chrome://flags
Search for terms like:
- Gemini
- Optimisation Guide
- On-device AI
Disable the relevant experimental flags connected to Gemini Nano.
4. Remove the Downloaded File
After disabling the AI features, users can manually delete the weights.bin file and the OptGuideOnDeviceModel folder from Chrome’s User Data directory. Once the related AI services are disabled, Chrome should stop downloading the model again.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future. She has also conducted high-profile interviews and podcasts with industry leaders, bringing sharp analysis and accessible storytelling to a wide audience.
