If you’ve been keeping an eye on Google’s recent developments or have interacted with its suite of applications, it’s hard to overlook the pervasive influence of artificial intelligence. From Gmail to Google Drive, and even Messages, the Gemini AI has woven itself into the fabric of nearly every Google app, often without user solicitation. For those who share a sentiment of ambivalence towards AI, finding practical applications can be a challenge. If you’re inclined to minimize the AI features on your device, this guide offers a straightforward approach to do just that.
What you should know before disabling Google AI on your phone
While the integration of AI sounds promising, there is no universal switch to disable it across your Android device. This limitation arises from the diverse ways manufacturers have embedded AI functionalities. A universal toggle to deactivate Gemini across all applications would certainly simplify matters.
To streamline your experience, you can selectively disable Google AI features in various apps, including Messages, Gmail, Google Photos, and even some exclusive Pixel tools. The following steps, demonstrated on a Pixel 10 Pro, should be applicable to most Android devices.
Google Messages
If the Gemini button in the Messages app feels intrusive, you can easily turn it off. Keeping AI out of personal conversations can enhance your messaging experience.
- Open the Google Messages app.
- Tap the Profile icon in the top right corner.
- Select Messages settings.
- Scroll down and tap Gemini in Messages.
For Gmail, the process is similarly straightforward:
- Open the Gmail app.
- Tap the hamburger menu in the top left and navigate to Settings.
- Select your email account and locate Google Workspace smart features.
- Disable both Smart features in Google Workspace and Smart features in other Google products.
This action will not only disable Gemini in Gmail but will also extend to Workspace apps like Google Chat, Drive, and Meet. Additionally, turning off the second toggle will remove Gemini from services such as Google Wallet and certain smart features in Google Maps.
Google Photos
Recent updates have transformed the search functionality in Google Photos, replacing it with the Gemini-powered Ask Photos feature. Other AI functionalities include remixes and photo-to-video conversions. If you prefer to keep AI at bay in your photo library, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Photos app.
- Tap the Profile icon in the top right and select Photos settings.
- Tap Preferences and then Gemini features in Photos. Disable any unnecessary features, or simply toggle off Use Gemini in Photos.
Phone app
For users of Google Pixel smartphones, AI features have made their way into core applications, including the Phone app. While functionalities like Call Screen and Hold for Me can be beneficial, you may prefer a more straightforward approach. To disable these features:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the hamburger menu in the top left corner and go to Settings.
- Under the Call Assist section, you will find various AI-powered features. Disable any that you do not wish to use.
Pixel Screenshots
For owners of the Google Pixel 9 or Pixel 10 series, the Pixel Screenshots app analyzes your screenshots to provide contextual information. While this can be advantageous, it may not be desirable for everyone. To disable this feature:
- Open the Pixel Screenshots app.
- Tap the gear icon in the top right corner.
- Disable the toggle for Search your screenshots with on-device AI.
If you find the app unnecessary, you can also disable it entirely through the app info page.
These steps outline how to reduce the presence of Google AI across your device’s applications. For those who wish to eliminate Gemini altogether, disabling the app itself will sever its integrations and effectively deactivate AI features on your device. While some AI functionalities may prove useful, many still fall short of practical application, leading to a preference for simplicity in user experience.
