Ask The Techspert: TechBytes Episode 6

In my regular Techspert column, I typically focus on a single tech topic. However, in my TechBytes episodes, I tackle multiple questions from readers covering a variety of subjects. From smartphones to smart TVs and computers, this column has it all! If you’d like your question featured in the next TechBytes column, submit it on this form. Now, let’s dive in!

Question #1: Is Google Reading My Emails?

I keep hearing that companies are using artificial intelligence to learn from people’s information. I use Gmail daily for personal messages, bills, and important emails. Is Google reading my emails and using them to train its AI? Should I be worried about my privacy?

Techspert’s Answer:

This is a fantastic question and one that has caused a lot of confusion. Let’s break it down:

• Does Google “read” your emails? Yes, but not in the way most people think. Gmail scans the contents of your messages, but this is done by computers, not people. The scanning serves practical purposes, such as detecting spam and malware, organizing your inbox, suggesting quick replies, and facilitating features like tracking packages or adding events to your calendar. These conveniences are part of Gmail’s “smart features,” which analyze email content to enhance user experience.
• Are your emails being used to train Google’s general AI models, such as Gemini? According to Google, no, your personal emails and attachments are not used to train its public AI systems. The company has clarified that Gmail’s smart features have been around for years and are designed to personalize your experience, such as spam detection and quick replies, without feeding data into broader AI training.

💡 Pro tip:

You can disable smart features if you want Gmail to stop analyzing your messages beyond basic spam and security protections. To do this, open Gmail > Settings > See all settings > General, then turn off options like Smart features, Smart Compose, Smart Reply, Nudges, and Package tracking. Be sure to click Save Changes at the bottom of the page and reload Gmail for the updates to take effect.

Question #2: Guest Checkout vs. Account Login

I do a lot of online shopping. Does signing in as a guest provide any more security than logging in as a returning member?

Techspert’s Answer:

Shopping as a guest may feel safer, but it isn’t always more secure. Guest checkout means the store doesn’t save your information for future visits, which can reduce risk in case of a data breach. However, having an account often provides added protections, such as order history, easier refunds, and fraud alerts.

The most crucial safety step is to shop only on trusted websites. If you create accounts, consider using a password manager to avoid reusing the same password across multiple sites.

Question #3: Using Your Phone as a Remote

How do I turn my phone into a remote?

Techspert’s Answer:

It’s easier than you might think! Most smart TVs and streaming devices offer full remote control through their official apps. If you have a Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, or a smart TV from brands like LG or Samsung, simply download the corresponding app from the App Store or Google Play. As long as your phone and TV are connected to the same home Wi-Fi network, you can change channels, adjust volume, navigate menus, and even type using your phone’s keyboard, which is often easier than using a traditional remote.

💡 Pro Tip:

Many streaming apps also function as mini remotes. Apps like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify allow you to pause, play, and control what’s on your TV directly from your phone once you’re signed in.

Question #4: Decluttering Files Across Devices

I’m trying to clean things up, but I’m confused about where to start. I have files in OneDrive, on my current PC, and on an old computer. Which one should I clean up first?

Techspert’s Answer:

Start with your current PC, as it’s the device you use most and likely causing the most day-to-day frustration. Next, tackle OneDrive. Since OneDrive often backs up files from your PC, cleaning your computer first will simplify the cloud cleanup.

Save the old computer for last. Think of it like an attic: you don’t want to sort it until your main living space is organized. Before deleting anything on the old PC, ensure there’s nothing important you still need, and consider copying key files to an external drive or OneDrive for safekeeping. While you’re in the decluttering mindset, check out my Techspert’s Guide to digital decluttering.

If you’d like your question answered in the next TechBytes episode, submit it on this form.

Got a tech question that just cannot wait? Join the Everything Tech and Ask a Tech Expert groups on the Senior Planet Community platform to ask any tech questions you might have and discuss technology trends with other like-minded individuals. You can also call our free Senior Planet Tech Hotline at 888-713-3495.

Your Turn

Leave a comment below with any questions or input that you might have!

Techspert Jonathan is Senior Planet’s Sr. Digital Community Relations and Product Specialist and a former Senior Planet San Antonio technology trainer. He is also an iOS developer with a background in Information Systems and Cyber Security.