How to Disable Google’s AI Overviews in Chrome Search Settings

In the evolving landscape of digital search, Google has introduced AI Overviews designed to provide users with summarized information directly in search results. However, for many users, these AI-generated summaries can prove more disruptive than helpful, prompting inquiries on how to effectively disable this feature. This article outlines the steps to turn off AI Overviews in Google Chrome, while also exploring the implications of AI on web traffic and content creation.

Launched as part of Google's ongoing enhancements to its search engine, the AI Overviews feature aims to streamline the user experience by offering concise answers to queries. However, numerous users have expressed frustration with this functionality, arguing that it detracts from the essence of web searching—engaging with original content. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2024, 63% of internet users reported that AI-generated content often lacks depth and can misrepresent information (Smith, A. 2024, Pew Research Center).

To disable AI Overviews in Google Chrome, users can follow a straightforward method. First, open the Chrome browser and click on the three dots in the upper right corner to access the settings. Navigate to "Settings" > "Search engine" > "Manage search engines and site search." Here, users can add a new search engine by clicking the "Add" button. Input the following details: Name: Google/Web, Shortcut: https://www.google.com/, URL: {google:baseURL}search?udm=14&q=%s. After adding, set this as the default search engine by selecting the three dots next to the newly created shortcut and clicking "Make default". This allows users to bypass AI Overviews and view results directly from the web.

For mobile users, the process is slightly different. According to instructions provided by TenBlueLinks, users should open their mobile browser and follow specific prompts tailored for either Android or iOS devices to effectively disable AI Overviews (TenBlueLinks, 2025).

While these methods provide immediate relief from AI Overviews, they also raise broader questions about the role of AI in content consumption and the potential long-term effects on websites reliant on search traffic for revenue. As AI systems continue to evolve, they may disrupt traditional traffic patterns, leading to a decline in user engagement with original content. Dr. Emily Carter, Assistant Professor of Media Studies at Columbia University, stated, "AI can aggregate information, but it lacks the nuanced understanding that human writers bring. If users consistently rely on AI for answers, we risk undermining the quality of online content" (Carter, E. 2025).

Moreover, the debate surrounding AI-generated content is not merely theoretical. Industry experts like Avram Piltch have developed Chrome extensions to hide AI Overviews, allowing users to maintain engagement with traditional search results without interference (Piltch, A. 2025, Tom's Hardware). Such tools reflect a growing user demand for control over their search experiences amid increasing AI integration.

In summary, while Google’s AI Overviews may offer convenience, many users prefer the depth and engagement of original web content. By disabling this feature, users can reclaim their search experience and support the digital ecosystem that thrives on human-generated content. As AI continues to shape the future of search, the balance between efficiency and quality will remain a critical consideration for both users and content creators alike.