Chrome's 4GB AI model isn't new, but you're not wrong for being confused

A curious omission Google users were more willing to excuse AI in 2024, but the backlash is real in 2026. People are increasingly looking to avoid AI features, which makes this 4GB stealth download all the more questionable. Google’s obsession with AI has led to numerous stumbles, even when the company has ostensibly good intentions, because we are all (rightly!) hyper-focused on how this technology is impacting our lives. …