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Tech how-to: Turn off built-in AI on your computer and phone
Ever feel like your apps are trying a little too hard to be helpful? Maybe they’re suggesting cringy replies, summarizing things you actually wanted to read, or just getting way too pushy.
Let’s dive into how to turn off those AI features that just aren’t working for you.
Start in the settings
Look for the settings cog (that little gear icon) or tap your profile picture to open your options. Once inside, check sections labeled AI, smart features, suggestions, privacy or automation.
Keep an eye out for toggles and checkboxes that let you switch features on or off. You want to find AI add-ons like summaries, smart replies, recommendations and predictive text that tries to finish your sentences for you.
✅ Be a Privacy Komando: While you’re in settings, take a peek at the privacy section for anything related to data collection or personalization. Your data is what powers AI, so if you’re not using AI, turn it off.
No-more-AI cheat sheet
Here are the most common steps. Because there are so many makes, models and operating systems out there, your steps might be a little different.
On a Windows PC: Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar. From here, you can turn off Copilot.
On a Mac running macOS 15 or later: Click the Apple menu > System Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > toggle Apple Intelligence off. Note: Apple Intelligence isn’t available on all Macs yet.
On an iPhone: Apple Intelligence is on by default with compatible models. To change that, open Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > toggle Apple Intelligence off. Note: Apple Intelligence isn’t available on all Macs yet.
On an Android: Choose between Gemini (Google’s AI) and the old Google Assistant. Go to Settings > Apps > Assistant > Digital assistants from Google.
In Gmail: Click the gear icon > See all settings > General. Scroll down to Smart Compose and turn writing suggestions off. Farther down, you can turn off Smart Reply, too.
The tech world moves fast, and apps get updates and new features all the time. Pop in now and then to make sure your apps are just how you want ’em.
Tags: Android, Apple, Google, operating systems, settings
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