How to Turn off Gemini for Google Workspace?

Introduction

Google introduced its masterpiece called Gemini in December, 2023. It is one of the most amazing AI software. It's a smart assistant which boosts efficiency, productivity and makes work easier by automating tasks while the user works in Google workspace. 

However, not every organization finds Gemini to be useful. Some organizations disable Gemini due to various factors, such as data privacy and preference for manual control over AI-generated content. Many organizations find it intrusive, unnecessary, and sometimes even disruptive to their workflow.

In this blog, we will discuss what is Google Gemini, why organizations need to disable Gemini, and the steps to disable Gemini in Google Workspace, including Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, Google Search, and Google Assistant.

But first, let us start by understanding what Gemini AI is?  

What is Gemini AI?

Gemini AI is one of Google's most advanced AI models, developed by Google DeepMind, which is a powerhouse in artificial intelligence. Launched in 2023, Gemini is designed to handle a variety of tasks, including text generation, code writing, language translation, and more. As Google’s answer to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, it aims to bring smarter, AI-powered enhancements to Google Workspace.

However, not everyone is on board with Gemini. After the launch of business plans in January 2025, many users welcomed the new AI-driven features, but others found Gemini to be overly intrusive, especially when using functions like Google Search or Gmail. Some users feel that Gemini’s constant suggestions disrupt their workflow rather than improve it.

If you’re among those who prefer a Gemini-free experience, don’t worry, as this guide has got you covered.

Disabling Gemini: Why do Organizations do that ?

To begin with, let us understand why organizations disable Gemini. You must be surprised to know that Gemini has a lot of smart features and can take your efficiency and productivity to the next level by streamlining workflows and automating tasks. 

While Google Gemini can be a game-changer, not every company finds it suitable for their operations. Here are some common reasons why organizations may consider disabling Gemini:

• Privacy Concerns: 

With Gemini AI now built into Google Drive and Gmail, businesses worry about how much access it has to emails and documents. Google assures users that their data isn’t used for AI training, but the fact that Gemini can still interact with sensitive company information makes some organizations uneasy. This raises privacy concerns for many companies, particularly those dealing with sensitive information.

• Compliance with Industry Regulations: 

Industries like healthcare, banking, and legal services follow strict data protection laws, which means that they need full control over all their sensitive information. Since AI-generated content doesn’t always meet these compliance standards, many businesses in these sectors prefer to turn off Gemini rather than risk violating regulations.

• Avoiding AI-Generated Misinformation: 

AI models are impressive, but they aren’t perfect. Gemini can sometimes generate misleading, biased, or inaccurate information, which is a major concern for businesses that rely on precise, fact-based data like finance, legal, and scientific industries. Instead of dealing with potential errors, some organizations choose to disable Gemini and rely on human oversight.

How to Turn Off Gemini in Google Workspace ?

Disabling Gemini AI in Google Workspace isn’t as simple as one might expect. While Google Enterprise Standard and Enterprise Plus users should theoretically have the option to turn it off, this setting isn’t easily accessible at the moment. Since Gemini is deeply integrated into various Google services, including Gmail, Google Workspace, and mobile devices, disabling it may require directly contacting Google Support and requesting its removal.

However, even though a universal option to turn off Gemini for Google Workspace isn’t available, you can still restrict its functionality and limit its data collection in certain Google apps. Below, we’ll walk you through how to turn off Gemini in Google Workspace, including Gmail, Google Search, and Google Assistant using available settings.

Since Google doesn’t currently offer a way to fully turn off Gemini for Google Workspace, you can restrict its influence by turning off smart AI features in specific apps. Let us quickly look at how to turn off Gemini on different applications of Google. 

How to Turn Off Gemini on Gmail?

If you want to turn off Gemini for Gmail, the best approach is to disable Smart Compose and Smart Reply. While this won’t completely remove Gemini, it will minimize its AI-powered suggestions and limit its presence.

Turning Off Gemini in Gmail on Mobile (Android & iOS)

The process to disable Gemini in Gmail is the same for both Android and iOS devices. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Gmail app on your phone.
   
2. Tap the three horizontal lines in the top left corner.
   
   
3. Scroll down and select Settings.
   
   
4. Choose the Gmail account where you want to disable Gemini.
   
5. In the Compose and Reply section, find and toggle off Smart Compose and Smart Reply.
   

Turning Off Gemini in Gmail on Desktop (Windows & macOS)

The steps to disable Gemini on Gmail for desktop are similar to the mobile version:

1. Open Gmail in your browser.
   
2. Click the gear icon in the top right corner.
   
3. Select See all settings.
   
4. Under the General tab, find Smart Compose and Smart Reply, then turn them off.
   
   
   
   
5. Scroll down and click Save Changes to apply the settings.
   

Turning Off Gemini in Google Docs

To prevent Gemini AI from generating text suggestions in Google Docs, follow these steps:

1. Open a Google Docs document.
   
2. Click Tools in the top menu.
   
   
3. Select Preferences.
   
4. Uncheck Smart Compose and Smart Reply.
   
   
5. Click OK to save your changes.

Turning Off Gemini in Google Sheets

To disable AI-powered suggestions in Google Sheets:

1. Open a Google Sheets document.
   
2. Click Tools in the top menu.
   
   
3. Hover over Suggestion controls.
   
4. Click on any active AI features (e.g., Enable autocomplete) to disable them.

Turning Off Gemini in Google Slides

The process to turn off Gemini in Google Slides is the same as in Google Docs:

1. Open a Google Slides presentation.
   
2. Click Tools in the top menu.
   
   
3. Select Preferences.
   
4. Uncheck Smart Compose and Smart Reply.
   
   
5. Click OK to confirm.

How to Turn Off Gemini in Google Search

Google doesn’t offer a simple switch to disable Gemini AI in Google Search, but you can restrict data collection that Gemini may use for personalization. Let us understand how to turn off Gemini in Google search on mobile and desktop.

Turning Off Gemini in Google Search on Mobile (Android & iOS)

To limit Gemini’s data collection on mobile search:

1. Open the Google app on your phone.
   
2. Tap your profile picture and go to Settings.
   
   
3. Select Privacy and Safety.
   
   
4. Under Content, tap Search personalization
   .
   
5. Scroll down and select My Google Activity.
   
   
6. Go to Web and App Activity.
   
   
7. Tap Turn off and follow the prompts.
   

Pro Tip: Disabling the Personalize Search toggle in Search Personalization will further limit Gemini’s ability to use your data.

Turning Off Gemini in Google Search on Desktop (Windows & macOS)

To disable Gemini’s data collection on a computer, you need to do the following:

1. Open Google Chrome and click your profile picture in the top right corner.
   
   
2. Click on manage your Google Account.
   
3. In the left sidebar, click Data & Privacy.
   
   
4. Scroll to Web and App Activity and click on it.
   
5. Click Turn off and confirm your choice.
   

How to Turn Off Gemini in Google Assistant

While Google allows users to switch between Google Assistant and Gemini, Gemini AI still powers some responses, making it impossible to completely remove it. However, you can limit Gemini’s access to your data by tweaking Google Assistant’s settings.

Restricting Gemini in Google Assistant

1. Locate the Google Assistant app on your phone or smart device.
   
2. Tap and hold the app until a menu appears, then tap Settings.
   
   
3. Scroll down to Personal Results.
   
   
4. Toggle off Personal Results to limit Gemini’s access to your data.
   

To further reduce Gemini’s presence, you can also disable Google’s data collection by following the same steps used for Google Search.

Switching Back to Google Assistant (Instead of Gemini)

If you prefer to use the original Google Assistant instead of Gemini AI:

1. Open Google Assistant settings.
2. Tap Digital Assistants from Google.
3. Select Google Assistant.
4. Confirm by tapping Switch.

Conclusion

Gemini is a game-changer for teamwork and efficiency in Google Workspace, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some businesses choose to disable it for reasons like budget limits, privacy concerns, compliance rules, or simply wanting more control over content.

But the good news is that turning off Gemini won’t throw a wrench in your workflow; your team can keep running smoothly without it. However, organizations must also consider that AI can boost efficiency, productivity and multiply customer satisfaction by tailoring their needs.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about whether you can use Gemini, it’s about whether it truly fits your business needs and goals in a world where technology is always evolving.

For more such problem-solving articles about Google Workspace, read the xFanatical blogs. xFanatical, the x factor your organization requires. 

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