All of Google’s products now boast more AI features, including Chrome. Some users have noticed that Chrome suddenly requests more storage space for an AI model. This is true—Chrome has downloaded a 4GB AI model for on-device processing since 2024. However, the confusion is understandable as Google hasn’t explained its AI efforts well.

The list of potential uses for this model has changed over time, and it’s possible your machine has been running a local Gemini Nano model since then or that it was downloaded yesterday. According to Google, whether Gemini Nano is installed on your machine depends on various factors, including hardware, account features, and website usage.

Despite the hype around this 4GB AI model, users may think it’s something new due to its sudden appearance. Essentially, Chrome has been quietly integrating local AI capabilities for years without much fanfare or clarification from Google.