Google Gemini may soon get full access to your Mac's files, apps and the web

Google appears to be preparing broader powers for its Gemini assistant on macOS. As spotted by TestingCatalog on X, the Gemini desktop app contains references to a hidden setting called "Additional sandbox options" that would grant the assistant far wider access to the system.

According to the report, enabling the option would let Gemini read, create, modify, and even delete files anywhere on the computer — not just in folders the user has explicitly connected to the assistant. A pop-up in the app also indicates the AI could communicate with apps such as Mail, Safari, or Messages and take actions through them.

"By enabling additional sandbox options, you will be able to expand what Gemini can do and access on your Mac," Google explains in the hidden interface. "Depending on which settings you enable, Gemini may be permitted to take actions without asking for your permission first."

Some limits remain

The assistant would not get unchecked control. The experience is expected to resemble Claude, where the user explicitly grants permission for the AI to operate the machine. Gemini would still ask for confirmation before sensitive actions: buying products or transferring money, creating online accounts, accepting legal terms on the user's behalf, or changing sensitive personal information.

The feature is not live, and Google has not confirmed it. It is also unclear when "Full Access" might arrive, or which Gemini model would power it.

Notably, the plans could run into resistance from Apple, which is reportedly weighing ways to make it harder for AI agents to reach personal files and data on the Mac. The setting fits into Google's broader "computer use" strategy, in which the AI moves beyond the chat window to work directly with files, websites, and native apps.

Source: Bleeping Computer