To remove or minimize AI Overviews in Google Search, you can use several methods. While you can't disable AI Overviews entirely, these workarounds will help you get a more traditional search experience.
Using the "Web" Tab
Google has introduced a "Web" tab that allows you to bypass AI Overviews and see traditional search results:
- On Mobile: After running a search, tap the "Web" tab at the top of the results page. If you don't see it, swipe left on the tabs below the search bar until it appears.
- On Desktop: Click the "⋮ More" tab above the search results, then select "Web" to switch to traditional search results.
Browser Extensions
Several browser extensions can help you hide AI Overviews:
- Hide Google AI Overviews: Available on the Chrome Web Store, this extension removes AI-generated summaries from Google search results. It works on Chrome, Edge, and other Chromium-based browsers.
- Bye Bye, Google AI: This Chrome extension uses CSS to hide AI Overviews by default and can be customized to remove other unwanted elements like sponsored links and shopping blocks.
- uBlock Origin: Add the filter
google.com##.GcKpuin the "My filters" section to block AI Overviews.
Modifying Browser Search Settings
You can configure your browser to default to the "Web" tab results:
- In Chrome:
- Go to Settings > Search engine > Manage search engines and site search.
- Click "Add" next to the 'Site search' section.
- Enter a name (e.g., "Google Web"), a shortcut, and the URL
https://www.google.com/search?q=%s&udm=14. - Save and set it as the default search engine.
Using URL Parameters
Add &udm=14 to the end of the Google search URL to directly access the "Web" tab results:
- Example:
https://www.google.com/search?q=your+query&udm=14.
Disabling Experimental Features
If you have enabled experimental AI features via Google Labs, you can turn them off:
- Go to labs.google.com or click the flask icon on Google.com while signed into your account.
- Turn off AI Overviews under the Search Labs webpage.
Alternative Search Engines
If you prefer to avoid Google's AI features entirely, consider switching to other search engines:
- DuckDuckGo: Known for privacy and simplicity, without AI-generated summaries.
- Ecosia: Uses ad revenue to plant trees and offers a straightforward search experience.
- Brave Search: Focuses on privacy and simplicity, with an optional AI feature that is not enabled by default.
By using these methods, you can minimize the presence of AI Overviews in your Google search results and enjoy a more traditional search experience.
Answered August 12 2024 by Toolify
