Google Photos AI Search OFF? Here's the Kill Switch!

How to Disable AI Search in Google Photos

Google Photos has recently rolled out an updated version of its “Ask Photos” search experience, powered by AI. While this feature aims to enhance how you navigate your photo library, Google is also providing users with the option to disable it altogether. If you prefer the classic search interface, here’s how to turn off AI search in Google Photos.

“Ask Photos”, initially launched in late 2024, was designed as an AI-powered tool to help you sift through your Google Photos collection. It offered promising capabilities, such as searching for specific events using the names of people recognized by Photos. However, its initial performance was sluggish, leading Google to temporarily halt the rollout for improvements. Now, the revamped version is available.

The new and improved “Ask Photos” experience offers a more streamlined and faster performance. It delivers results almost instantly, similar to the traditional search function, while simultaneously generating AI-driven results in the background to broaden the search scope. This represents a commendable compromise by Google. The best part? It’s optional.

In a move that’s becoming increasingly rare in the tech world, Google Photos allows you to completely disable the AI search feature, specifically the Gemini-integrated search. While Photos has always used AI to some extent in its search capabilities, the updated options give you control over turning off the newer AI enhancements.

How to Disable AI Search Features in Google Photos:

First, ensure you have the latest version of Google Photos. Google is implementing these options through a server-side update, which means you simply need to have the most recent version of Google Photos for Android or iOS and wait for the update to reach you. On Android, you might expedite the process by force-closing the app.

Once you have the update, follow these steps:

• Tap on your profile picture.

• Look for “Photos settings.”

• On the settings page, tap “Preferences.”

• Then, select “Gemini features in Photos.”

In this section, you'll find several options. The one you're looking for is the toggle labeled “Search with Ask Photos.”

Turning this setting off will completely disable “Ask Photos.” Once disabled, the “Ask” button on the bottom bar of the Photos app will revert to “Search,” and you’ll be back to the classic UI.

As previously mentioned, this is a server-side rollout and is still in progress, so these options might not be immediately available to everyone.

Having this choice is undoubtedly beneficial, especially considering the previous alternative was a relatively hidden shortcut. It's a welcome step towards user empowerment and customization.

In conclusion, Google's decision to allow users to disable the AI-powered "Ask Photos" search feature demonstrates a commitment to user choice and flexibility. By following these simple steps, you can easily revert to the classic search interface if you prefer, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your needs. This blend of innovative AI enhancements with user control is a positive sign for the future of Google Photos.

Source: https://9to5google.com/2025/06/27/how-to-turn-off-google-photos-ai-search/