Feeling like a Gemini is suddenly everywhere in your Google apps? You’re not the only one. Google’s AI assistant has quietly been added to services like Gmail, Docs, Photos, and more, often without a clear heads-up.
While these tools can be helpful, a lot of users still prefer the classic, AI-free Google experience. Luckily, there’s a way to switch Gemini off, though the option is a bit buried.
Gemini is rolling out across Google, whether you asked for it or not
Throughout 2025, Google has been steadily adding Gemini to its ecosystem. But not everyone is happy about it. Whether you’re worried about privacy, annoyed by glitches, or just like things the way they were, there’s a way to get back some control.
The trick? It’s hidden in Gmail’s settings under something called “Smart Features.” Even though Gemini affects several apps, this is the only place to manage it.
How to find the Smart Features settings in Gmail:
- Open Gmail in a web browser
- Click the gear icon in the top right
- Choose “See all settings”
- Go to the “General” tab
- Scroll down to “Google Workspace Smart Features”
This is where you can manage how Gemini works across Gmail, Docs, Drive, and more.
Want Gemini gone? Here’s what to do
Once you’re in the Smart Features section, you’ll see two important toggles. Turn them both off and hit “Save Changes” at the bottom of the page.
After that, Gemini may still appear here and there, but clicking on it will just prompt you to turn Smart Features back on. So, essentially, Gemini won’t work unless you choose to reactivate it.
Here’s what you’ll lose by turning it off:
- AI-generated email summaries in Gmail
- Writing suggestions in Docs
- Smart file suggestions in Drive
- Automatic event creation in Calendar
- Some advanced features in Google Photos
Don’t forget about Google Photos
Even after turning Gemini off in Gmail settings, one extra step is needed to fully disable it in Google Photos.
To do that:
- Open the Google Photos app
- Tap your profile picture
- Go to “Photos settings”
- Find the Gemini section
- Turn off the “Ask Gemini” option
Photos has its own AI system for things like image recognition, which is why it needs a separate switch.
You can also choose to keep Gemini on in Photos if you like its search features, but turn it off elsewhere. It’s flexible depending on what you prefer.
Why people are turning off Gemini
Lots of users are opting out for good reasons. Some are uneasy about AI reading their emails and documents. Others have run into bugs or noticed apps running slower. And some professionals say Gemini’s suggestions just don’t cut it for more technical work.
Mostly, people just want control over what’s running in the background.
While Google hasn’t made these settings super obvious, it’s a good sign they’re at least giving us the choice. Whether you’re ready to ditch Gemini entirely or just limit it, now you know how to take back control of your Google experience.
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