If you’re wondering how to turn off generative AI in Google search, you’ve come to the right place. While those AI-powered answers can be helpful, sometimes you just want the classic search results. Let’s dive into the ways you can customize your experience.
Table of Contents
What is Generative AI in Google Search?
Let’s get on the same page:
- Generative AI: It’s a type of artificial intelligence that can produce text, translate languages, write different kinds of creative content, and even answer your questions in an informative way. It’s what powers those instant answers you see in Google now.
- Not All Answers Are Created Equal: Sometimes the AI gets it right, and sometimes it’s way off or provides info you weren’t looking for.
Why Turn Off Generative AI?
Here’s where you might want less AI and more traditional search:
- Seeking Simplicity: You just want a list of websites, not a mini-essay from a robot.
- Finding Diverse Sources: AI answers can sometimes feel like a single “correct” source, drowning out other perspectives.
- Controlling Search Clutter: Too many AI-generated summaries can make it hard to find what you actually clicked to see.
- Preference for Human-Curated Info: You enjoy the “hunt” of research and value insights from real people.
How To Turn Off “Code Tips” in Google Search?
If you’re a programmer, you might have also spotted AI trying to auto-write code for you in the search results. You can turn this bit of AI off too:
- Find the “Code Tips” experiment: Also on the Google Search Labs page.
- Toggle it off: Just like with “SGE”, switch “Code Tips” to the “Off” position.
Important Note: These settings are specific to your browser and Google account. If you use another device or a different browser, you’ll need to repeat the process there.
How to Turn Off Generative AI in Google?
Good news: You have (some) options!
1. Google Search Labs
- Go to https://labs.google.com/search
- You’ll see a toggle specifically for something called “Search Generative Experience” (SGE). Toggle this OFF.
Important Notes:
- Labs are experimental, so features may change or disappear.
- This primarily reduces AI-written summaries in results, not every AI function.
2. Focus Your Queries
- Get specific: Instead of “bird migration,” try “bird migration maps North America”
- Use negative keywords: Add “-summary” or “-definition” to signal what you don’t want from the AI.
3. Feedback Matters (Sort of)
- See those “Was this helpful?” buttons under AI answers. Those DO send signals to Google, but it’s more about training the AI, not fully turning it off for you.
Things to Keep In Mind
- AI is Here to Stay: It’s a big part of Google’s future, so expect it to evolve.
- Control is Limited (for Now): Don’t expect to banish every trace of generative AI from your search experience.
- Your Choice: You decide how and when you want AI assistance while searching!
Finding Your Search Zen: Power Search Tips
Get the most out of Google, with or without Generative AI:
- Be specific in your searches: The better your question, the better the AI (or traditional results) will be.
- Learn search operators: Use quotes (“) for exact phrases, the minus sign (-) to exclude words, and more.
- Experiment and find what works for you! Tech is always evolving, and your best approach should too.
The Search Evolves
Generative AI is a powerful tool, but like any tool, it needs to be used in the right way. By understanding how to manage it in your Google searches, you ensure a better, more personalized search experience!
FAQs
- Will disabling generative AI make Google slower?
- Not really. It may even speed up getting your list of search results.
- Does this turn off AI in image searches too?
- Unfortunately, no. It’s specific to text-based results at this point.
- Can I disable generative AI on my phone?
- Currently, the Google Labs option is for desktop browsers only.
- What if I like the AI answers sometimes?
- Absolutely okay! Keep it on, and use the feedback buttons to help Google refine the answers over time.
- Are other search engines doing this generative AI thing?
- Yes! It reflects a broader trend, so understanding your options is wise.