Google AI, also known as Google Assistant, is a helpful tool that can answer questions, set reminders, play music, and control smart devices. However, some people may prefer to turn it off for privacy reasons or to save battery life. Here’s a simple guide on how to disable Google AI, along with some facts about why you might want to do so.
Why Turn Off Google AI?
- Privacy Concerns: Google Assistant listens for voice commands, which means it may record and store your conversations. Some users worry about how this data is used.
- Fact: A 2019 study by VRT NWS found that Google contractors listened to over 1,000 audio recordings from Google Assistant without users’ knowledge.
- Battery Life: Keeping Google AI active can drain your phone’s battery faster.
- Stat: According to Android Authority, background processes like Google Assistant can consume up to 10% of your battery daily.
- Personal Preference: Not everyone finds voice assistants useful, and some may find them intrusive.
How to Turn Off Google AI (Google Assistant)
Google integrates AI into various products and services, such as Google Assistant, Search, and Bard. If you want to disable or limit Google’s AI features, follow these steps for different services:
On Android Phones
- Open the Google App:
- Tap the Google app on your phone or swipe up from the bottom corner of your screen to activate Google Assistant.
- Go to Settings:
- Tap your profile picture in the top-right corner, then select Settings.
- Disable Google Assistant:
- Go to Google Assistant > General.
- Toggle off the switch for Google Assistant.
- Turn Off “Hey Google”:
- In the same settings menu, go to Voice Match.
- Toggle off Hey Google to stop your phone from responding to voice commands.
On iPhones
- Open the Google App:
- Download and open the Google app if you don’t already have it.
- Access Settings:
- Tap your profile picture and go to Settings.
- Disable Google Assistant:
- Tap Google Assistant > General.
- Toggle off Google Assistant.
On Smart Speakers or Displays (Google Nest)
- Open the Google Home App:
- Launch the app on your phone or tablet.
- Select Your Device:
- Tap the device you want to adjust (e.g., Google Nest Mini).
- Turn Off Microphone:
- Tap the Settings icon (gear icon).
- Toggle off the microphone to disable voice commands.
Disable AI in Google Search (Search Generative Experience – SGE)
Google uses AI to enhance search results. If you prefer traditional search:
- Go to Google Search Labs (if available in your region).
- Toggle off SGE (Search Generative Experience).
Opt-Out of Google Bard
Google Bard is an experimental AI chatbot. You can’t completely disable it, but you can avoid using it by:
- Not interacting with Bard at bard.google.com.
- Removing your Bard activity from Google My Activity.
How To Turn Off Personalized AI Features
Google uses AI to personalize ads and recommendations. To reduce AI-based tracking:
- Go to Google My Activity.
- Click Activity Controls.
- Turn off Web & App Activity, YouTube History, and Ad Personalization.
Disable AI-Based Smart Replies in Gmail
Google AI suggests smart replies in Gmail. To disable it:
- Open Gmail > Click the gear icon > See all settings.
- Under the General tab, scroll to Smart Reply and Smart Compose.
- Toggle off both options.
Stop AI Features in Google Photos
Google Photos uses AI for face grouping and automatic categorization. To turn it off:
- Open Google Photos > Tap Profile > Photos Settings.
- Select Face Grouping and turn it off.
What Happens When You Turn Off Google AI?
- Voice Commands: Your device will no longer respond to “Hey Google” or “OK Google.”
- Personalized Features: Features like reminders, routines, and personalized suggestions will stop working.
- Data Collection: Google will no longer collect voice data from your device, enhancing your privacy.
Tips for Better Privacy
- Delete Voice History:
- Go to your Google Account > Data & Privacy > Voice & Audio Activity > Delete Activity.
- Limit Ad Tracking:
- Adjust your ad settings in your Google Account to reduce personalized ads.
- Use Alternative Assistants:
- If you still want a voice assistant, consider alternatives like Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa, which may offer different privacy settings.
Conclusion
Turning off Google AI is a straightforward process that can help protect your privacy and save battery life. While Google Assistant is a powerful tool, it’s not essential for everyone. By following the steps above, you can easily disable it and take control of your data.
If you’re concerned about privacy, regularly review your Google Account settings and delete any stored data to ensure your information stays secure.
