August 28, 2026
Gemini-based data classification in Google Drive is now available in open beta
Gemini-powered AI classification in Google Drive is now available in open beta.
By automating file identification and labeling across Drive, AI classification helps organizations enforce granular data loss prevention (DLP) policies at scale, establish retention rules, and utilize label metadata during audit investigations. This also becomes a critical aspect in elevating an organization’s security posture in the agentic era, preventing agentic workflows from accessing and acting autonomously on sensitive data.
This feature leverages Gemini models to apply data classification labels to files in Google Drive. Previously, AI classification required admins to identify and manually label training files for the AI model to learn the types of data associated with each data classification level. With this new capability, Gemini models offer admins an alternative method for data classification that is faster and more efficient, eliminating the need for manual model training and replacing it with administrator-defined instructions.
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In the Admin console, Gemini models interpret instructions, evaluate files, and apply appropriate data classification labels. |
Administrators maintain full control of the Gemini-based data classification process. They select the label, provide Gemini with instructions, and scope the audience for the files being evaluated. For Gemini-labeled files, editors and owners of those files with the appropriate label permissions will have the opportunity to either review and accept, or modify the automatically-applied label. Audit logs capture when files are labeled, including any user acceptance or modification of a Gemini-applied label.
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In the Admin console, once enabled, Workspace Admins can see metrics on the labels applied to files by Gemini. |
Data classification is a critical activity for organizations that are conscious about data protection, compliance, and reporting. However, data classification can also be challenging to put into practice, particularly when it comes to accurately classifying files at scale. By using the new Gemini-based capabilities in AI classification for Drive, admins are able to achieve a higher degree of data classification accuracy at scale.
Rollout pace
- Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout to Open Beta — targeting completion by September 30th.
Getting started
- Admins: For customers on a supported product license, the option for configuring Gemini-based AI classification instructions will appear in the Workspace Admin Console under the Data Classification option in the Security section (Security > Access and data control > Data classification). Use our Help Center to learn more.
- End users: There is no end user setting for this feature.
Availability
- Enterprise: Enterprise Plus
- Education: Google AI Pro for Education
- Other Editions: Frontline Plus