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What’s google.exe (Google Windows App)? Is it safe or a virus?

Google.exe by Google LLC, described as "Google Windows App," is an executable file associated with Google that allows you to search your Windows PC in fast and useful ways, plus integrates some Gemini AI technology into your PC.

The official website says "now you can search without switching windows or interrupting your flow. Whether you're writing in a doc or in the middle of a game".

Google had a popular Windows desktop app previously, but this is a new version of the app that integrates AI. On the website it says "with Google Lens built in, you can select and search anything on your screen, making it easy to translate images or text, get help with homework problems and more" and it says "you can also get deeper AI-powered responses in AI Mode and keep exploring with follow-up questions and helpful links".

In summary, this new Google.exe release reintroduces the Windows desktop app with built-in AI features, offering faster on-device search, Google Lens screen capture, and Gemini-powered responses for a more interactive and helpful experience.

Researched by Laura @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about google.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes google.exe (Google Windows App)?

We’ve found Google LLC should be the publisher of google.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: September 17, 2025

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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