Gemini not for you? How to permanently remove Google’s AI in Gmail, Docs and Photos

Google’s Gemini AI is everywhere these days – but you don’t have to put up with it if you don’t want to. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to turn it off without any tech headaches.

How to disable Gemini on Gmail, Docs, and more

You may have noticed Google’s Gemini features if you logged in to Gmail, Google Docs, or Photos recently. Some people love the convenience and speed of quick summaries. Many people would like their old emails and files.

The good news is? You can switch Gemini off completely – and it’s easier than you think. Google has hidden the setting in Gmail under “Smart Features.” The setting is not prominently displayed, but if you know how to find it, you can remove Gemini with just a few mouse clicks.

Step-by-step:

1. Open Gmail in your browser or app
2. Click on the Settings gear
3. Select ‘See all settings’
4. Under the General tab, scroll down to ‘Google Workspace smart features’
5. Click ‘Manage Workspace smart feature settings’

Two toggles will be visible. The top toggle controls Workspace smart features (Gmail Docs Drive), while the bottom toggle is for other Google products which use Workspace data. Gemini AI is included in these smart features – so turn the top toggle off.

What happens when Gemini is switched off?
All those AI-generated extras – summaries, draft suggestions, event scanning – disappear. Gemini disappears from your documents and inbox. Google will ask you if you want to use smart features again if you attempt to click the Gemini Button. There are no more AI interruptions but you also lose some conveniences.

How to remove Gemini images from Google photos

What about Google Photos?
Gemini has its own switch in Photos. Go to Settings in your Photos app and search for the Gemini/Ask Gemini switch. Flip it off, and Photos will stick to classic search – no AI summaries, just your good old albums.

Should you turn Gemini off? Privacy pros and cons explained

Why do people want Gemini gone?
Others are concerned about their privacy. Some find AI suggestions annoying. And some just want the technology to continue working as it has always done. Whatever your reason, it’s good to know Google still lets you opt out – even if they hide the option behind a few clicks.

Remember that you will lose other “smart”, useful features, such as automatic calendar invites, or file suggestions. For many, however, it’s worth the price for a Google-free life.

Last tip: Keep your Google account AI-free

Double-check your Gemini settings a few days after you have turned it off. Google occasionally changes menu names or locations – but as of now, this is the quickest way to opt out across Gmail, Docs, Drive, and beyond.