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Is it Possible to Turn Off AI Overview in Google Search? What We Know

Introduction

If you've opened up your phone to do a Google search lately, you've probably noticed Google's new language model, Gemini, at work. Google now produces artificial intelligence-generated answers to your search queries, pulling from everything on the internet to provide you with the information you need.

Understanding Google's AI Overview

The AI Overview feature in Google Search integrates AI-generated answers into your search results. This means that when you ask a question, Google's AI synthesizes information from various sources to give you a concise answer right at the top of your search results. It's designed to make finding information quicker and easier, but not everyone is thrilled about this change.

What is Gemini?

Gemini is Google's latest multimodal model, capable of understanding and processing different types of information, including text, code, audio, image, and video. This advanced capability allows Gemini to provide more comprehensive answers by combining various forms of data, making it a powerful tool for generating AI responses.

Why Some Users Want to Turn Off AI Overview

While the AI Overview feature aims to enhance user experience, some people are wary of it. Concerns range from the accuracy of AI-generated content to privacy issues. Some users prefer the traditional search results where they can browse through multiple links and sources themselves, rather than relying on an AI's interpretation.

Can You Turn Off AI Overview in Google Search?

AI Overviews are now a part of Google Search and will show up if your queries trigger them, although they don't yet appear for every query. Currently, there is no straightforward way to completely disable this feature. However, users can adjust their search settings to get closer to the previous model of results.

Filtering for Traditional Web Links

If you prefer the old search experience, you can filter for traditional web links by using the "more" tab and then selecting "web." This will help you bypass some of the AI-generated content and get to the list of web links that you're used to.

Disabling Gemini in the Google App

For those using the Google app, there is a way to turn off Gemini's results. Here are the steps for iPhone users:

1. Open the Google app on your iPhone.
2. Tap your profile picture at the top right.
3. Go to Settings, then Voice.
4. Find "Show Gemini."
5. Toggle it off if it's on. This will remove the Gemini tab from your Google app home screen, although prior chats with Gemini will still be accessible in your Gemini Apps Activity.

Limitations on Safari

If you are using Safari to conduct web searches, unfortunately, you can't toggle off Gemini results. Safari users might have to use the Google app or another browser if they want more control over the AI features.

Deleting Gemini Activity

Managing your AI activity is crucial for privacy and maintaining control over your personal data. Google automatically deletes search history and activity after 18 months, but you can delete it at any time.

Gemini as a Personal AI Assistant

Gemini has evolved from just being a chatbot to becoming a personal AI assistant. According to Amar Subramanya, vice president of engineering for Gemini experiences, this transformation aims to provide more personalized and helpful interactions. However, not everyone is excited about this integration, with some users finding it intrusive.

Automatic Deletion of Search History

Google's policy is to delete search history and activity automatically after 18 months. However, if you prefer more immediate control, you can manually delete your search history.

Steps to Delete Gemini Activity on iPhone/iPad

To delete your Gemini activity on an iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Go to gemini.google.com on your device.
2. Tap Menu at the top, then Activity.
3. Alternatively, go to myactivity.google.com/product/gemini.
4. Choose the activity you want to delete. Options include:
   • All your Gemini activity: Tap Delete All time above your activity.
   • The last hour or day: Tap Delete Last hour or Last day.
   • A specific time period: Tap Delete Custom range.
   • A specific day: Tap Delete all activity from (day).
   • A specific activity: Tap Delete activity item next to the activity.

Accessing Gemini Activity via MyActivity

You can also manage your Gemini activity by navigating to myactivity.google.com. Here, you can view and delete activities across different Google services, providing a centralized place for managing your digital footprint.

FAQs about AI Overview and Gemini

Q1: Can I completely disable AI Overview in Google Search? A1: Currently, there is no way to completely disable AI Overview in Google Search, but you can filter for traditional web links.

Q2: How do I turn off Gemini in the Google app? A2: Go to the Google app, tap your profile picture, navigate to Settings > Voice, and toggle off "Show Gemini."

Q3: Is it possible to turn off AI Overview in Safari? A3: No, Safari users cannot turn off AI Overview. Using the Google app or another browser is recommended.

Q4: How often does Google delete my search history automatically? A4: Google automatically deletes search history and activity after 18 months.

Q5: How can I delete specific Gemini activities? A5: Visit gemini.google.com or myactivity.google.com, and choose the activity you want to delete from the options provided.

Conclusion

While Google's AI Overview and Gemini offer enhanced search capabilities, not everyone is comfortable with these changes. Understanding how to manage and control these features can help users tailor their search experience to their preferences. Whether you choose to filter for traditional web links or manually delete your activity, staying informed about these options ensures you can navigate Google's evolving search landscape with confidence.