How to Turn Off AI Overview on Google Search: A Step-by-Step Guide

Google Search now includes an AI Overview feature that provides users with a quick summary of their search results. While this can be helpful, some users may find it annoying or prefer to view traditional search results. In this article, we’ll walk you through several methods to turn off AI Overviews on Google Search, including using the "Web" search tab or a Chrome extension.

What is AI Overview?

AI Overview is a feature that Google introduced to improve the search experience by providing a brief summary of the search results. When you search for a query, an AI-generated overview appears at the top, offering key information to help you quickly grasp the topic.

How Does AI Overview Work on Google Search?

AI Overview works by analyzing the user’s search query and generating a concise summary using information from various sources. Here's how it functions:

• Identifying Relevant Searches: Google’s system automatically detects when an AI Overview will be most beneficial for the search.

• Creating AI Summary: It collects data from multiple sources, then creates a short summary with key points to assist users.

• Providing Sources: The AI Overview lists links to the sources it used, allowing users to explore more on the topic.

Can You Turn Off AI Overview on Google?

Unfortunately, there is no official option to completely disable AI Overviews on Google Search. However, there are some workarounds that allow you to hide AI-generated summaries, such as switching to the “Web” search tab or using a Chrome extension.

How to Turn Off AI Overview from Google Search

1. Use the “Web” Search Tab

One way to avoid AI Overviews is to switch to the traditional search results. Here’s how:

On Mobile:

• If you’re using the Google app or a mobile browser, look for the “Web” tab at the top of the search results page.

• If it’s not visible, swipe left on the tabs until it appears.

On Desktop:

• On your computer, click on the “? More” option in the search results, then select “Web.”

This will enable the traditional list of links without the AI-generated summary.

2. Install a Chrome Extension to Block AI Overview

For desktop users, another solution is to use the "Hide Google AI Overviews" Chrome extension. Here’s how to set it up:

• Go to the Chrome Web Store.

• Search for “Hide Google AI Overviews.”

• Click “Add to Chrome” and then “Add extension.”

Once installed, this extension will block the AI Overviews from appearing in your search results.

3. Turn Off SGE Toggles in Google Chrome Browser

If you're using Google Chrome with experimental AI enabled, you can turn off AI Overviews by disabling the "SGE Toggles." Here’s how:

• Open Google Chrome and make sure you’re logged into your Google account.

• Click on the “Search Labs” icon in the upper-right corner of your browser.

• Turn off the “SGE Toggles” to disable generative AI results.

• Relaunch Chrome to complete the process.

FAQ

Can I turn off AI on Google?

No, Google doesn’t offer a complete option to disable AI Overviews, but you can hide them by using the “Web” search tab or a Chrome extension.

How do I remove generative AI from Google Search?

To remove AI Overviews, open your Chrome browser, go to the "Search Labs" icon, and turn off the SGE toggles to disable generative AI in your search results.

Conclusion

While Google’s AI Overview feature cannot be entirely turned off, there are multiple ways to hide it. By using the “Web” search tab or a Chrome extension, users can enjoy a traditional search experience without the AI-generated summaries. We hope these tips help you enhance your Google search experience!