Google Docs: How to Escape the Intrusive AI Gemini

When I opened a Google Docs document to write an article, I was immediately greeted by a pop-up suggesting I use AI Gemini to assist me in my writing. This sudden intrusion frustrated me, especially since I couldn't find a direct way to close this annoying interface. This experience prompted me to create a guide to help other users get rid of these unwanted interruptions in Google Docs.

How to Disable the Bottom Bar

The first step to reclaiming a distraction-free workspace is quite simple. Just click on the "Gemini" option located in the menu bar at the top of your Google Docs document. Then, in the dropdown menu, select "bottom bar preferences." By disabling this option, you will remove the AI box that appears at the bottom of your screen, allowing you to work without being interrupted by unsolicited suggestions.

Other Features to Disable

In my quest to disable this interface, I initially overlooked the "bottom bar preferences" option out of frustration. I then clicked on "Ask something else" and requested Gemini to withdraw. The AI, seemingly intent on persisting, simply advised me to click the "X" icon to close the conversation, without actually disabling itself completely. This interaction felt suspicious to me.

Other users have reported additional features, such as a "writing assistance" that follows the cursor, which could also be perceived as intrusive. To avoid being disturbed by these features, it is best to disable them in advance. As Benjamin Franklin said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," and while he was talking about fire safety, this applies to digital product design as well.

Disabling Smart Features

Rather than disabling each AI feature individually, it is possible to globally disable "smart features" in Google Workspace via Gmail. To do this, open your Gmail inbox and click on the gear icon to access settings. Then, select "See all settings." While you're at it, why not choose a fun theme for your inbox?

Once in the settings, scroll down to "Google Workspace smart features" and click on "Manage smart features settings." You will then have the option to disable these features in Google Workspace, including the annoying pop-ups from Gemini in Google Docs. You can also disable other smart features if they bother you, such as Gmail's automatic calendar event creation.

By following these steps, you should be able to work on Google Docs without being disturbed by Gemini's pop-ups. You can now breathe easy and fully focus on your writing.