How to turn off AI in your Google Docs

Many users have found themselves confronted by unexpected AI prompts while working in Google Docs, particularly the intrusive 'write with Gemini' feature. If you’re looking to eliminate these distractions, you’re not alone. After some trial and error, I’ve discovered ways to effectively turn off these AI distractions so you can focus on your writing. The initial step is quite simple. When I first encountered the pop-up, my frustration led me to overlook a crucial setting. Instead of finding the 'bottom bar preferences,' I mistakenly opted for the 'Ask something else' option, hoping Gemini could help me resolve the issue. To no surprise, the AI suggested clicking the 'X' icon, which only closed the chat but didn’t disable the feature. This experience raises questions about how effective these solutions really are. Other users have shared their own frustrations, reporting additional features like a hovering 'help me write' tool that can be equally distracting. To prevent these annoyances before they become a hassle, it's wise to take a proactive approach. As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.' Instead of battling each AI feature individually, you can disable all 'smart features' in your Google Workspace through Gmail settings. With these adjustments, you can reclaim your writing experience in Google Docs and enjoy a more seamless workflow.