Table of Contents
Can I disable Gemini AI features in my Google Photos search settings?
Understanding the Gemini Integration Issue
Google Photos serves primarily as a personal asset library, valued for its 15GB storage tier and distinct “deep search” capability. This search function historically analyzed personal metadata to retrieve specific memories—such as “University,” “Convocation,” or “Campus”—solely from your uploaded content.
The recent integration of Gemini AI fundamentally alters this retrieval process. The system now aggregates data from the broader Google Search index alongside your private library. Consequently, a query for “University” populates your gallery view with stock images and web results rather than strictly displaying your own photographs. For users seeking specific personal files, this creates unnecessary visual clutter and reduces search efficiency.
Restoring Local Search Functionality
To prioritize your personal media and exclude generic web results, you must disable the AI integration manually. This process reverts the search tool to its standard behavior, scanning only your backed-up items.
Step-by-Step Configuration:
- Launch the Application: Open Google Photos on your device.
- Access User Menu: Tap your profile icon located in the top-right corner.
- Navigate to Settings: Select Photos Settings from the menu options.
- Locate Preferences: Tap on Preferences to view customization controls.
- Select AI Settings: Choose the option labeled Gemini in Google Photos.
- Disable the Feature: Toggle the switch next to Use Gemini in Photos to the “Off” position.
The Result
Deactivating this toggle isolates your search queries. Future searches will strictly reference your internal database, ensuring that keywords like “University” return only the photos you captured. This adjustment restores the utility of the app as a dedicated personal gallery rather than a hybrid search engine.